Authentic Odisha Pakhala Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Dish

6 hours

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4 from 3 votes

About Authentic Odisha Pakhala Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Dish

Pakhala, a traditional Odia dish, is the perfect antidote to scorching summer heat. This fermented rice recipe, often prepared in large earthen pots to enhance its aroma, is a staple in Odia homes and can even be found at the Puri Jagannath temple (though not an offering). It's surprisingly simple to make, yet offers a unique and refreshing culinary experience.
Unlike many dishes, Pakhala's side dishes are versatile. Enjoy it with fish fry, dalma, sweet dal, badi-chura, alo-bharta, saga-bhaja, chicken kosha, shallots, ripe mangoes, or anything you fancy! Many add yogurt, cucumber, tomato, and onion for a thicker consistency and eat it without sides.
This recipe mirrors the Pakhala served at the Puri temple – a taste of Odisha's culinary heritage. Get ready to experience a truly authentic and thirst-quenching dish!
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Recipe Time & More

Prep6 hours
Total6 hours
Calories723 kcal
Serves6
Served AsLunch
Recipe TasteSaltySavoury

Ingredients
 

For the Pakhala

For Serving

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Instructions
 

Prepare the Pakhala

  • Put cooked basmati rice in a large bowl. Add 8 cups of water, kadi patta, and finely chopped ginger. Let it ferment for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight in a cool place.

Serve the Pakhala

  • When ready to serve, add yogurt, finely chopped green chilies, and lemon wedges to the fermented rice mixture.

Add Spices

  • Stir in the roasted and crushed cumin seeds and fennel seeds. You can add these an hour before serving if preferred.

Garnish and Enjoy

  • Taste and adjust salt as needed. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Pakhala with your choice of side dishes.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Pakhala

  • For a more authentic flavor, use a traditional earthen pot for fermentation. The porous nature enhances the aroma.
  • The fermentation time can vary depending on the temperature. In warmer climates, 6 hours might be sufficient; in cooler climates, you may need closer to 8-12 hours.
  • Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference. You can also add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for extra aroma.
  • Experiment with different side dishes! Pakhala pairs beautifully with various Odia specialties and even simple accompaniments like cucumber raita.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4 from 3 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 723kcalCarbohydrates: 152gProtein: 17gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 36mgPotassium: 278mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 19IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 142mgIron: 3mg

Sai Priya
Sai Priya

I love travelling, meeting people, knowing their dreams, capturing that essence of Life in my camera lens, while doing that I never miss a chance to explore...

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4 from 3 votes

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