7 Famous Foods From Berhampur, From Ghugni Chaat To Chhena Jhili

Berhampur is a haven for foodies as it offers a wide array of amazing street food and delectable sweets. Street food is a major aspect of Odiah’s food scene, and Berhampur especially is famed for some of the most famous delicacies you can find in the East.

Besides cult items like chhena poda and pakhala bhata which are already widely known and appreciated, Berhampur also offers some regional flavours. Take the chhena jhili, for instance, which is popularly found in Nimapada; Berhampur is one of the few regions in Odisha where chhena jhili is available in almost every other sweet shop. Let’s look at some of the other famous delicacies of Berhampur.

Pakhala Bhata

Perhaps the most popular dish to come out of Odisha, Pakhala Bhata, is often referred to as Odisha’s traditional summer staple. This simple yet refreshing dish is made of fermented rice soaked in water and seasoned with salt, green chillies, and a dash of mustard oil. Sometimes, it’s accompanied by sides like fried or boiled vegetables, fish fry, or bhaja. Pakhala Bhata cools down the body in the scorching summer heat and can easily be made with locally available ingredients.

Chenna Poda

Chhena Poda is the most famous Odia dessert that has garnered global attention. In Odia, it stands for ‘roasted cheese’ and is made with cottage cheese (which is a form of chenna), sugar, cardamom, and ghee. The mixture is caramelized for some time which imparts a golden hue and a heavenly aroma. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, succulent centre, making Chenna Poda a favourite among every foodie.

Recommendation: Patro Sweets

Type: Vegetarian

Price: Rs 100-200

Ghugni Chaat

Ghugni Chaat features dried yellow peas cooked with spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger, creating a rich and aromatic base. It’s topped with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, coriander leaves, and a drizzle of tangy tamarind chutney and it’s a particular favourite with the younger crowd. It’s a popular choice for those craving a truly flavorful street snack.

Recommendation: The area near Lochapada Main Road

Price: Rs 40-70