Chhena Poda Recipe

Chhena Poda is a delicious and traditional Odia dessert that originates from the state of Odisha in India. It is made with fresh homemade cottage cheese, known as chhena, which is sweetened and baked to perfection. The literal translation of "Chhena Poda" is "burnt cheese," referring to the caramelization that occurs during the baking process, giving the dessert its distinct flavor. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making Chhena Poda at home.

1. Introduction

Chhena Poda is a beloved sweet treat that holds a special place in the hearts of Odia people. It is often served during festive occasions, family gatherings, and celebrations. The combination of the caramelized crust and the soft, sweet center makes Chhena Poda a delightful indulgence for dessert lovers.

2. Ingredients

To make Chhena Poda, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 liter full-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
• 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)

3. Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare Chhena Poda:

3.1 Making Chhena (Cottage Cheese)

1. Heat the milk in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat until it comes to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and add the lemon juice gradually, stirring continuously.
3. The milk will start to curdle, and the whey (greenish liquid) will separate from the cheese solids.
4. Once the milk has completely curdled and the whey is separated, turn off the heat.
5. Strain the curdled milk using a muslin cloth or cheesecloth.
6. Rinse the cheese under cold water to remove any traces of lemon juice.
7. Gather the cloth and squeeze out the excess water from the cheese.
8. Hang the cloth with the cheese for about 30 minutes to remove any remaining liquid.

3.2 Preparing the Chhena Poda Batter

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with ghee.
• Transfer the prepared chhena to a mixing bowl and crumble it with your fingers.
• Add sugar, semolina, chopped nuts, cardamom powder, and ghee to the crumbled chhena.
• Mix all the ingredients well until they are evenly combined and form a smooth batter.

3.3 Baking the Chhena Poda

• Pour the chhena batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
• Gently tap the dish on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.
• Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely.
• Once cooled, run a knife around the edges of the dish and carefully invert it onto a serving plate to unmold the Chhena Poda.
• Cut it into desired shapes and sizes.

4. Serving and Storage

Chhena Poda can be served warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Store any leftover Chhena Poda in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

5. Variations and Tips

• Some variations of Chhena Poda include adding grated coconut or saffron strands to the batter for enhanced flavor.
• For a healthier twist, you can substitute sugar with jaggery or other natural sweeteners.
• Ensure that the chhena is well drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter, which can affect the texture of the final dish.
• Experiment with different nuts and spices to personalize the flavor profile of your Chhena Poda.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought cottage cheese instead of homemade chhena?

Homemade chhena is preferred for its freshness and texture, but you can use store-bought cottage cheese as a substitute if needed.

2. Can I make Chhena Poda without an oven?

Yes, you can prepare Chhena Poda on a stovetop using a heavy-bottomed pan. Simply cover the pan and cook on low heat until it is set and lightly browned.

3. Can I freeze Chhena Poda?

Yes, you can freeze Chhena Poda. Cut it into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw the frozen Chhena Poda in the refrigerator before serving.

4. Can I use other flavorings instead of cardamom powder?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like rose water, saffron, or even nutmeg to infuse your Chhena Poda with unique aromas.

5. Is Chhena Poda gluten-free?

Chhena Poda contains semolina, which is derived from wheat, making it not suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Now that you have the recipe for Chhena Poda, it's time to indulge in the delightful flavors of this traditional Odia dessert. Enjoy the soft, caramelized goodness and share it with your loved ones to spread the joy of this delectable treat.