The Hidden Treasure of Indian Cuisine: Chhena Poda
Indian cuisine is world famous for its rich and diverse flavors. This cuisine delights the palate not only with its spices but also with its sweets. Gulab jamun, Jalebi, and Ladoo As well as iconic desserts such as, Odisha belonging to the region Chhena Poda, is among the jewels waiting to be discovered. This dessert leaves a permanent mark on the palate, especially with the harmonious combination of cheese and sugar.
What is Chhena Poda?
Chhena Poda, literally means “cooked cheese”. Fresh chhena This dessert, made with (cottage cheese), is baked in the oven and is usually decorated with almonds or pistachios. This dessert is especially preferred on special occasions and celebrations.
Chhena Poda Ingredients
- 500g fresh chhena (homemade cheese or cottage cheese)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (you can adjust it according to your taste)
- 1 tablespoon of semolina
- 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons ghee (butter can also be used)
- 1 pinch of salt
- Almond or pistachio pieces for topping (optional)
How to Make Chhena Poda
- Preparing fresh chhena: If you cannot find ready-made chhena, boil a liter of milk. Add a few drops of lemon juice to curdle the milk. Strain the curdled milk to obtain chhena. Mash the resulting soft cheese lump thoroughly to obtain a smooth consistency.
- Preparing the dough: Add granulated sugar, semolina, cardamom powder and a pinch of salt to the crushed chhena. Knead all the ingredients well. The mixture should be slightly sticky and have a soft dough consistency.
- Molding: Grease a baking dish or cake mould with ghee. Spread the prepared chhena mixture evenly in the mould. Sprinkle almond or pistachio pieces on top if desired.
- Cooking: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 40-50 minutes. The top of the dessert should turn golden brown and the aroma of burnt sugar should fill your kitchen. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool.
- Service: Chhena Poda can be sliced and served hot or cold. It goes perfectly with a cup of tea or black coffee.
Benefits of Chhena Poda
Chhena Poda is a rich source of protein, thanks to the fresh cottage cheese it contains. calcium ve phosphorus It is also very rich in terms of. This dessert is a perfect snack for those who do sports, while at the same time it is a healthy alternative to meet your sweet tooth. The cardamom in it facilitates digestion and adds a unique flavor to the dessert with its aroma.
History of Chhena Poda
Chhena Poda is a traditional dessert of Odisha region, made by the local people for centuries. The origin of this dessert is based on simple recipes made in the villages. Over time, the dessert has become an indispensable delicacy on special occasions and festivals. Today, similar recipes can be found in different parts of India.
Tips on Chhena Poda
- Chhena needs to be mashed well to make it smooth. This will make the dessert softer in texture.
- Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so continue baking until the top of the dessert is golden brown.
- Waiting for the dessert to cool completely before serving will ensure that the slices are more even.
In conclusion, Chhena Poda, is one of the most special desserts of Indian cuisine. It leaves an unforgettable taste on the palate with both its flavor and nutritional value. By trying this recipe, you can offer a special dessert to your guests and loved ones, and at the same time, you will discover the rich culture of India.
