The cuisine of Puri, a coastal town in the eastern state of Odisha in India, is known for its unique flavors and delicious seafood dishes. Some of the famous foods of Puri include:
Mahaprasad from Jagannath Temple
The Mahaprasad from the Jagannath Temple in Puri is famous and considered sacred by devotees. It is a complete vegetarian meal served as an offering to Lord Jagannath and is distributed among the devotees as a prasad (blessed food). The Mahaprasad typically includes rice, dal, vegetables, sweets, and other traditional Odia dishes.
Khaja
Khaja is a popular sweet dish from Puri, made of deep-fried layered pastry that is crispy and flaky. It is typically made of all-purpose flour, ghee (clarified butter), and sugar, and is often flavored with cardamom or saffron. Khaja is a popular festive sweet and is also available as a souvenir for tourists.
Seafood
Puri being a coastal town, seafood is a popular part of its cuisine. Fresh fish, prawns, crabs, and other seafood are often used in various dishes like fish curry, prawn curry, crab curry, and fried fish. These dishes are typically cooked with local spices, coconut, and mustard oil, which lend them a unique flavor.
Pakhala
Pakhala is a traditional Odia dish that is popular in Puri and other parts of Odisha, particularly during the summer months. It is a dish made of fermented rice soaked in water, typically served with curd, and often accompanied by fish fry, brinjal (eggplant) fry, and other side dishes. Pakhala is known for its refreshing taste and is considered a perfect summer meal.
Rasgulla
Rasgulla is a popular Bengali sweet that has also gained popularity in Puri and other parts of Odisha. It is a spongy and soft dessert made of paneer (cottage cheese) balls cooked in sugar syrup. Rasgulla is often offered as prasad at the Jagannath Temple and is also available in local sweet shops as a popular dessert.
Final Thoughts
The cuisine of Puri also includes many other traditional Odia dishes, street food, and local delicacies that are worth trying to experience the rich culinary heritage of the region.