Quite obviously, no Indian festival is complete without an assortment of delicacies to be relished. If you say festival, Indians will hear ‘delicious food’. That’s how festivals in India are synonymous with food. And can we even miss the festival of Diwali while talking about festive eats? The ‘Festival of Lights’ brings with it a lot of decadent dishes to be relished.
Diwali is celebrated in the eastern parts of India with a lot of pomp and show. From the fun-filled rituals and festivities to the vast array of delicious desserts, as an Odia, I know the festive season has begun from the aroma of delicious desserts. From pithas to Rasagola, we Odias relish some of the most delicious desserts during this festive season. And as Diwali is just around the corner, I know it's time for us to indulge in some more delicious desserts now. Do you also want to savour some authentic Odia desserts this Diwali? Here are five authentic Odia desserts for your Diwali indulgence.
1. Chhenapoda
One of the most beloved Odia desserts, Chhenapoda is made by baking a mixture of chhena and sugar till the exterior is caramelized and brown. Traditionally sal leaves are used for baking which results in the delicious aroma and flavours of the dessert.
2. Rasmalai
Quite popular amongst Indian foodies, Rasmalai is one of the most delicious desserts to relish on festive days. Try the recipe below to make Rasmalai at home this Diwali.
3. Chhena jhili
Whether it is a festive day or not, Chhena Jhili is one of my favourite desserts to relish. The spongy deep-fried balls made up of cottage cheese are soaked in sugar syrup before serving.
4. Rasagola
Undoubtedly one of the most popular desserts of Odisha, Odia Rasagola has received the GI tag too. The soft and spongy cottage cheese balls are soaked in sugar syrup are served to Lord Jagannath during Rath Yatra.
5. Rasabali
Savouring Rasabali during Diwali is a culinary tradition in Odisha. The dish is prepared by frying cottage cheese balls till they are dark brown and then soaked in thickened milk flavoured with saffron and turmeric.
Try these Odia desserts out this Diwali and let us know how you like them.
