Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa, is renowned for its scrumptious Odiya cuisine, loved by one & all. The history of the divine Odiya or Odia cuisine traces back to ancient times when the area was famous for its rich tradition and culinary culture. Odiya cuisine has eventually evolved over time while being influenced by different rulers of the region. This cuisine, particularly vegetarian, is prevalent today and can be reflected in lip-smacking dishes from the best veg restaurants in Bhubaneswar.
Typical vegetarian Odiya cuisine is a classic blend of different cultures, with significant influences from neighbouring states, including West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh. During the era of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, lasting from 11-15th century, the area witnessed increased development of monuments and temples. This led to the advancement of the concept of vegetarianism, eventually becoming a staple aspect of Odiya cuisine. With vegetarianism an integral part of the cuisine here, let us find out about the best veg restaurants in Bhubaneswar.
Best Veg Dishes to Try Out in Bhubaneswar
Here are some of the must-try veg dishes in Bhubaneswar if you are visiting the state of Orissa:
1. Pakhala
It is a traditional dish made out of fermented rice and is quite popular across the state of Orissa. Rice being a staple food in the entire region, this dish is widely consumed across the state, including Bhubaneswar. Therefore, it is easier to come across this dish in the menu of leading veg restaurants in Bhubaneswar.
Pakhala is a great dish to be consumed during summers as it keeps you hydrated and cool throughout. The dish features a slightly sour taste due to the involvement of the fermentation process in its preparation. The fermentation process ensures that the dish is fresh and cool for you to consume. It is a healthy, low-fat dish that is rich in nutrients and aids the process of digestion.
When you order a plate of Pakhala from a top-rated restaurant in Bhubaneswar, you are provided with a wide assortment of side dishes and condiments to enhance the overall experience. The dish is easy to be customized and enhanced with your choice of flavours.
2. Dahi Baigana
It is yet another popular vegetarian dish from the state of Orissa. As the name implies, the dish includes the crunch and deliciousness of baigana or eggplant and yoghurt or dahi. To enhance your culinary experience, the dish is enriched with the goodness of whole spices. When you order this delicacy from a famous restaurant in Bhubaneswar, you will be surprised by the unique range of flavours it offers.
The presence of yoghurt imparts a refreshing taste to the curry while the baigan or eggplant offers a rich texture. The use of spices offers some heat to the preparation to make it highly irresistible. Dahi Baigana is a healthy vegetarian dish that is rich in essential nutrients, including magnesium, calcium, and protein. It is indeed a comfort food in Orissa. You can have it with steamed rice and lentil soup.
3. Dalma
It is yet another popular vegetarian dish that is quite famous across the eastern part of the state. It is a lentil-based veg stew that is usually consumed with steamed rice. When cooked, Dalma features a thick consistency. Usually, chefs garnish this delicious tew with fresh coriander to enhance the taste.
Dalma features a warm, comforting flavour. At the same time, this stew is full of nutrition and healthy as well. The lentils offer a creamy texture to the scrumptious dish. Moreover, different veggies deliver a sweet, earthy flavour. Dalma is a satisfying dish that is ideal for a comforting meal.
4. Sagga Bhaja
It is a simple, delicious vegetable-based dish from Orissa. The vegetable-based delicacy is prepared by using different types of green, leafy veggies, including spinach, mustard greens, and amarnath leaves. All the veggies are chopped and cooked with whole spices.
Sagga Bhaja delivers a unique, comforting taste. The dish also features a slightly bitter flavour that is effectively balanced with the use of spices. You will also be surprised by the crunchy texture of the delicacy due to the sauteing process, adding immense taste and aroma. Usually, Sagga Bhaja is served as a side dish along with lentil soup (dal), steamed rice, or even as a standalone dish. The dish is healthy and nutritious as it is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
When you order Sagga Bhaja from a leading restaurant in Bhubaneswar, it serves to be an excellent way to include the goodness of leafy vegetables in your diet. It is quite popular during the winter months when fresh greens are available abundantly.
5. Janhi Aloo Poshto
It is a popular vegetarian dish in Bhubaneswar. The dish is prepared with the mixture of ridge gourd (janhi), poppy seeds (poshto), and potatoes (aloo). The dish is enhanced with the use of spices.
The delicious veggie-based delicacy features a unique taste that is slightly sweet, mildly spicy, and crunchy. The use of poppy seeds imparts a distinct texture and taste to the preparation. At the same time, the use of potatoes and ridge gourd makes it satisfying and fulfilling. The involvement of a variety of spices imparts some heat and immense flavours to make the dish highly irresistible.
6. Besara
It is a traditional dish from Orissa. The dish is prepared by mixing a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, eggplant, drumsticks, or pumpkin. All these veggies are cooked in fresh mustard oil and an assortment of spices.
Besara is a flavourful, spicy dish in Bhubaneswar that is consumed with both flatbreads and steamed rice. It is a popular delicacy in Bhubaneswar that is also consumed during special occasions and festivals of the region.
Conclusion
As you are visiting Bhubaneswar for the first time, you can order delicious dishes from the best veg restaurants in the city. With Swiggy, you can order your favourite dish from a leading veg restaurant in Bhubaneswar and get doorstep delivery in no time. Happy eating! Read More: 8 Best Veg Restaurants And Culinary Delights
