Chhena poda

Chhenapoda (Odia: ଛେନାପୋଡ଼) (transl. Burnt cheese) is a cheese dessert from the Indian state of Odisha. Chhena poda literally means Burnt Cheese in Odia, referring to its caramelised crust exterior and soft, spongy texture with slightly smoky notes. It is often described as the Indian counterpart to a cheesecake due to its rich, creamy taste and baking process.

It is made up of well-kneaded homemade fresh chhena, sugar, semolina, and is baked for several hours until it browns. It is often flavoured with cardamom and garnished with raisins and cashews, creating a rich and aromatic dessert.

Chhenapoda is known as one of the Indian desserts whose flavor is predominantly derived from the caramelisation of sugar.