From creamy French crème brûlée to silky Italian panna cotta, velvety Turkish dondurma to rich Indian kheer, milk is the soul of the world's greatest desserts. On World Milk Day 2026, there is no better way to speak about how milk has gifted India with desserts that are not only on top of their game but also are a direct competition to many modern-day desserts. One of them is Odisha's crown jewel, the chhena poda that is made from freshly prepared chhena, sugar and cardamom, then slow-baked until caramelised.
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This GI-tagged delicacy is India's answer to all the cheesecakes you love. The flavour profiles of chenna poda will feel rustic, smoky and magical. On World Milk Day 2026, here is a deep dive into Odisha’s chenna poda and why it should be on your dessert table more.
Tracing The History Of Odisha’s Chhenna Poda
Oriya cuisine, as it is known in Odisha, is famous for its delicate alchemy of flavours and this less-is-more culinary attitude is represented in chhena poda, a simple, beautiful dessert made of fragrant cardamom, creamy ghee and caramelised sugar.
The term "chhena" refers to a form of soft cheese made by curdling milk, while "poda" translates to "burnt" or "roasted." As the story goes, a sweet shop in the well-known Odia town of Nayagarh is where chhena poda first appeared. In 1947, Sudarshana Sahoo, the shop's proprietor, experimented one night in the early twentieth century by combining sugar, paneer, cardamom and semolina and baking the mixture in a low oven overnight.
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According to some reports, the breakthrough may have its origins in his family's previous efforts with his father Bidyadhar Sahoo being credited with the first discovery. However, Sudarshana Sahoo was instrumental in popularising the sweet, giving it a particular cardamom-scented character that was frequently improved by baking it wrapped in sal leaves.
Since 2022, April 11 has been commemorated as Chhena Poda Diwas, which commemorates his birth anniversary and this culinary heritage. During the 10-day-long Hindu celebration of Durga Puja, which honours the Hindu goddess Durga, chhena poda is a staple, its flavours as welcome as the celebratory revelry of the puja itself. The sweet has also received royal sanction since it is served to Lord Jagannath and his siblings in Odisha temples. It is also reported to have been praised by India's first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
A Look At How Odisha’s Chhenna Poda Is Created
Chhena poda preparation is a time-consuming and skill-intensive process, beginning with curdling fresh milk to make chhena. The chhena is then drained and kneaded to a smooth consistency. Sugar, cardamom, chopped almonds, and occasionally raisins are added, adding a lovely sweetness and fragrant element. The mixture is carefully placed in an oiled pan and cooked in a moderate oven for many hours until it has developed a thick caramelised crust. The long roasting procedure imparts chhena poda's characteristic taste and caramelised texture, making it a very decadent dessert.
The caramelisation of the sugar during the slow roasting process creates a deep, toasty sweetness that complements the creamy texture of the chhena. The addition of cardamom lends a warm and aromatic touch, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Chopped nuts such as cashews or almonds provide a satisfying crunch and nutty undertone, while the occasional inclusion of raisins adds a burst of sweetness in each bite. The interplay of these flavours and textures creates a dessert that is both indulgent and incredibly satisfying.
Traditionally, chhena poda was prepared in earthenware pots and cooked in firewood ovens, lending a rustic charm to its allure. The choice of ingredients, the temperature, and the cooking time were all crucial elements in achieving the perfect balance of flavours and textures. However, with modern advancements, electric ovens have become the preferred method of baking chhena poda due to convenience and consistent results.
Chenna Poda In Urban Odisha & Across India
Chhena poda's evolution over time has not only seen regional variations but has also inspired culinary experimentation beyond Odisha's borders. Chefs and food enthusiasts have taken the essence of chhena poda and incorporated it into fusion desserts and modern interpretations. In some contemporary adaptations, chefs have added elements like chocolate, coffee, or fruit flavours to create unique chhena poda-inspired desserts.
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These innovative variations bring a delightful twist to the traditional recipe while retaining the essence of Chhena Poda's caramelised goodness. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or relished as a standalone treat, chhena poda continues to captivate food enthusiasts with its heavenly taste and soulful history.