Chhena Poda is a traditional Odia dessert made from fresh chhena (a type of Indian cottage cheese), sugar, and a touch of cardamom. To prepare it, crumbled chhena is mixed with sugar and a small amount of all-purpose flour until smooth. The mixture is then flavored with cardamom powder and optionally studded with cashews and raisins. This sweetened cheese mixture is transferred to a greased baking dish and baked in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45-50 minutes, until the top turns a golden brown. The result is a unique cake-like dessert with a caramelized exterior and a soft, creamy interior. After cooling completely, Chhena Poda is cut into pieces and served, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and richness that's characteristic of this beloved Odia treat.
