Happy Chhena Poda Divas! A Look at Odisha’s Signature Dessert

Bhubaneswar: In recent years, Odisha’s traditional sweet dishes have garnered global attention, shedding their under-rated status. Among these delights stands Chhena Poda, affectionately dubbed the Odia cheesecake, renowned for its sweet, smoky flavours and caramelized sugar notes.

Originating from Dasapalla village in 1947, Chhena Poda owes its creation to the late Sudarsan Sahu. Sahu’s innovative method of slow-roasting sweetened Chenna in a preheated oven yielded a delectable dessert, elevating the humble cottage cheese to culinary fame. Wrapped in sal leaves, this delicacy gained its distinctive aroma, captivating palates far and wide.

Sahu’s legacy lives on through Chhena Poda, now celebrated as Odisha’s quintessential sweetmeat and a revered offering to Lord Jagannath and his divine siblings. Even Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru commended its flavour, cementing its status as a national treasure.

April 11th marks the birth anniversary of Sahu, honoured by Odias as Chhena Poda Divas. In tribute, here’s a simplified recipe to recreate this beloved dessert:

Ingredients:
– 3 cups paneer
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 tablespoons semolina
– 1/2 handful cashews
– 1/4 teaspoon powdered green cardamom

Recipe:
1. Melt ghee in a pan and fry cashews until golden. Set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, mix semolina, paneer, and half cup of sugar. Add crushed nuts and mix thoroughly.
3. Grease small bowls with ghee and sugar, then fill them with the paneer mixture.
4. Spread the mixture evenly and cover the pan with foil.
5. Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes.
6. Garnish with cardamom powder and serve warm.