Traditional Odiya Dishes That Keep You Cool and Craving More

May14,2025

Fermented rice soaked in water, served chilled with curd, fried veggies, and green chilies. A staple summer delight in every Odiya home.

Pakhala Bhata

Brinjal slices cooked in a spiced curd-based gravy—cooling, creamy, and packed with probiotics.

Dahi Baigana

This caramelized cheese dessert is often refrigerated before serving in summer, making it a sweet, dense treat best enjoyed cold.

Chhena Poda

Lightly spiced and tangy, this mustard-infused fish curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice in hot weather.

Macha Besara

Made with raw mango, mint, roasted cumin, and black salt—this summer drink is both energizing and refreshing.

Aam Panna

A light curry made with bottle gourd leaves and mustard paste, perfect for a light and nutritious summer lunch.

Ghia Patra Tarkari

A variant of pakhala where grated cucumber and curd are added to the rice, making it even cooler and more hydrating

Kheera Pakhala

A lentil and vegetable stew made with minimal spices—this version is lighter and often enjoyed with rice and a squeeze of lemon.

Dalma

Traditional Odia summer coolers made with wood apple (bela), roasted gram flour (chhatua), yogurt, banana, and jaggery.

Pana Sankranti Drinks 

A temple-style fermented rice water drink spiced with curry leaves, green chili, and lemon—great for hydration and digestion.

Tanka Torani