The waves crashing along the Bay of Bengal, freshly prepared prasad bhog at the Jagannath Temple, thousands of devotees chanting mantras, and streets lined with age-old shops and newly opened cafes make Jagannath Puri an experience that will linger with gastronauts and curious people alike. While the city is known for its holiest pilgrimage destinations, it is equally celebrated for its deeply rooted culinary traditions, which locals have preserved. From wholesome vegetarian delicacies to the iconic prasad at the main temple, here are Puri's irresistible food items you need to try at least once.

Jagannath Puri Foods To Try

Here are five of the most famous delicacies you cannot miss on your trip to Puri, and also do indulge in the Chariot pulling processions during the Yatra this year.

1. Mahaprasad

If you are visiting Jagannath Puri, do not forget to indulge in the Mahaprasad prepared at the temple. Using the traditional method, prepared in the world's largest kitchen, it is a delight you cannot miss. 

2. Khaja

Golden, flaky, crispy, and delectably sweet, Khaja is one of the most popular sweets of Puri. Made with layers of crisp sheets coated and fried and put in sugar syrup.

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3. Dalma

Dalma is the heart of traditional Odia homes. This wholesome dish combines lentils, seasonal vegetables such as raw papaya, pumpkin, and drumsticks, and is finished with roasted cumin and a dollop of ghee. 

4. Pakhala Bhata

Fermented rice soaked in water and often served with curd, roasted chillies, fried vegetables, or crispy lentil dumplings, Pakhala Bhata is incredibly delicious. and loved during hot summers. 

5. Chhena Poda

No dessert in Odisha showcases the culinary journey better than a Chenna Poda. Fresh chhena mixed with sugar, semolina, and cardamom is baked slowly to develop a caramelised crust. Soft on the inside and smoky on the outside, with a perfect balance of sweetness.

6. Kanika

A fragrant, rich dish prepared especially during festivals with aromatic rice, ghee, whole spices, raisins, and cashews. 

7. Besara

For the love of mustard in Odisha, besara is a curry prepared with mixed vegetables in mustard-based gravy for a mildly pungent yet delicious flavour. 

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8. Ghanta Tarkari

Ghanta Tarkari is a seasonal vegetable dish, nutritious and full of flavours, prepared during festivals. Slow cooking allows every vegetable to absorb the nutrients and provide individual texture. 

9. Rasabali

A favourite dessert, Rasabali is cottage cheese patties fried in oil and soaked in thickened sweetened milk flavoured syrup with cardamom.

10. Dahi Bara Aloo Dum

A beloved Odia street snack, Dahi Bara Aloo Dum is a must-try, soft lentil dumpling soaked in chilled yoghurt with spicy potato curry. 

Jagananth Puri is not only famous for its annual chariot procession, but also is a place where culinary traditions and history come together with belief and are served on a plate to delight every palate. 

(Image credit: Instagram)

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