Intro: Simple Food, Sacred Memory
When the morning is lazy, or the mood is devotional, Odia kitchens turn to Chuda Kadali. It’s not flashy. There’s no fire. Just the gentle mashing of banana into soaked chuda, the sweetness of jaggery, and the light freshness of coconut.
In my childhood, this was offered during Kartik month, on Ekadashi, or even before school when time was short. And yet, it never felt like a shortcut — it felt like a blessing in a bowl.
Ingredients:
1 cup flattened rice (chuda/poha)
1–2 ripe bananas (preferably desi variety)
2–3 tbsp grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
1–2 tbsp jaggery or sugar (to taste)
½ cup milk or water (for soaking)
A pinch of cardamom (optional)
Steps to Make Chuda Kadali:
1. Soak the Chuda
Rinse and soak the poha in milk or water for 5–10 mins until soft. Drain excess.
2. Mash & Mix
In a bowl, mash bananas.
Add softened chuda, jaggery/sugar, coconut, and cardamom.
Mix gently. Serve immediately.
Serving Tips:
Serve as breakfast, prasad, or even a cooling evening snack
Optional: top with chopped nuts or ghee for extra richness
Why I Love It
Chuda Kadali is the kind of food that feels like it’s feeding more than your hunger. It’s ritual, it’s comfort, and it’s home in every bite.
The Pinch of Masala 