Traditional Odia Delicacies To Savour During Puri Rath Yatra

Dalma is a wholesome blend of lentils and vegetables, cooked without oil. It’s a beloved city specialty and gained fame after former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam personally requested it to be added to the Presidential menu. So popular is this traditional dish that a restaurant in the city bears its name. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

A must-try for vegetarians, Santula is a simple yet flavorful vegetable curry, typically enjoyed with rice or Indian bread. Its light, comforting taste makes it a favourite everyday dish. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

Rasabali is a rich, sweet delicacy made from pressed cottage cheese, deep-fried until it turns a lovely reddish-brown. This divine treat is best savoured at the Jagannath Temple, where it is a popular offering. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

Khaja is a signature Odisha sweet, especially popular during the Rath Yatra. Made from refined wheat flour and sugar, the dough is layered, sometimes stuffed with dry fruits, and lightly fried to create this crispy, flaky treat. It’s also one of the revered offerings at the Jagannath Temple. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

Malpua is a mouth-watering sweet pancake infused with cardamom, coconut, milk, and fennel seeds. It holds a special place as the morning offering to Lord Jagannath at the Puri Temple. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

Pitha is a traditional sweet made from rice and comes in various delightful forms in Puri. Some popular versions include Mandha Pitha, Endhuri Pitha, Arisa Pitha, and Chakuli Pitha, each with its unique taste and preparation style. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

Ukhuda is a local sweet made by sweetening fried puffed rice. This crunchy delight is also served as Bhog (offering) at the Puri Temple. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

Chenna Poda, meaning ‘burnt cheese,’ is a slow-cooked sweet made from cottage cheese and caramelized sugar. It is widely available in sweet shops near the Jagannath Temple and loved for its rich flavour and moist texture. (Representative image: Shutterstock)

Khicede is a savory dish served alongside curd and papad and is among Lord Jagannath’s maha bhog offerings. It’s made with a mix of rice, lentils, coconut, sugar, and cinnamon, offering a perfect balance of flavours. (Representative image)