Odia Style Soya Pakhala With Steamed Ridge Gourd Recipe

About this recipe

A refreshing Odia-style fermented rice dish paired with protein-rich soya chunks and steamed ridge gourd, embodying the flavors of Odisha with minimal oil and medium spice levels.

Ingredients

• 80 g Soya Chunks
• 200 ml Coconut Water
• 500 g Rice
• 500 G Ridge Gourd/Jhinge Tori(500Gm)
• 200 ml Mustard Oil
• 250g Green Chilli
• 20G Curry Leaves
• 20 g Turmeric Powder
• 10G Salt
• 250g Coriander

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Pakhala - In a bowl, mix the cooked and cooled rice with coconut water and a pinch of salt. Let it ferment for 30 minutes to develop the authentic tangy flavor.
2. Step 2: Prepare Ridge Gourd - Steam the sliced ridge gourd for 5-7 minutes until tender but not mushy. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Cook the Soya Chunks - In a pan, heat 5 ml mustard oil and temper with panch phoran, green chilies, and curry leaves. Add the soaked soya chunks, turmeric powder, and salt, and sauté for 5 minutes until the chunks absorb the flavors.
4. Step 4: Assemble - Serve the fermented pakhala rice with the sautéed soya chunks and steamed ridge gourd on the side. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and drizzle with the remaining mustard oil.