Odia cuisine, hailing from the eastern state of Odisha, is a delightful blend of flavour and tradition that reflects the cultural tapestry of the region. The food culture is a beautiful combination of influences of various dynasties and communities that offer a wide variety of vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian delight. Lesser on spices and high on flavours, it is known for its emphasis on satwik as well as seafood delicacies. Due to similar geographic conditions, the food is to an extent similar to the neighbouring states of Bihar and Bengal.
One of the most celebrated dishes from the state of Odisha, chenna poda is a delectable cake made with fresh chhena, sugar and cardamom powder. It is baked until it forms a caramelized outer layer and enjoys immense popularity both among the locals as well as visitors.
Ingredients
(Serving 4)
Chhena Or homemade paneer: 250 gms
Powdered sugar: 4 tsp
Milk: 4 tsp
Ghee: 2 tsp
Sooji: 2 tsp
Cashew and sultana raisin: 2 tsp
Cardamom powder: ¼ tsp
For caramel
Sugar: 3 tsp
Ghee: 1 tsp
Step 1
Mash the fresh homemade paneer with the help of your palm.
Step 2
To this add the powdered sugar and cardamom powder and mix well.
Step 3
Add sooji, milk, dry fruits and ghee. Mix to combine everything.
Step 4
Grease the baking tin with ghee. Put 2 tsp of sugar and place it on a gas top. Heat the pan until the sugar dissolves and starts to caramelize. Turn off the flame.
Step 5
Gradually pour the chenna mix over the caramelized tray. Tap the baking dish so that the mix settles well.
Step 6
Bake the chenna poda in a preheated oven at 180 degrees celcius for about 40 to 45 minutes.
Step 7
Once done, take it out and let it cool for at least an hour.
Step 8
Remove the chenna poda from the pan by holding it upside down on the serving tray. Cut into slices and serve.
By Nandini Bhushan
