Khichdi, Ghasa & Khaja: A look into Rath Yatra treats

With Rath Yatra around the corner (July 7-8), here’s a look at delicacies that are an essential part of the festivities and their unique histories.
The essentials
The temple kitchen churns out a range of treats around this time of the year. Before boarding the chariot, the deities are offered khichdi and pithas such as Takua, Chandamatha puli and Kanti pitha.Once on it, fruits, Amalu (malpua), a dish called Ratha kora made with coconut, khand and aromatic spices, along with sprouted green moong, khai are offered. Locals offer vessels of Chuda ghasa (flattened rice, ghee, sugar and coconut) as the chariot passes.

Khichdi, a major part of Mahaprasad
There are 56 types of dishes are offered to Jagannath as a part of the Mahaprasad during Rath Yatra. and Ada Hengu Khichdi, is one of them. This year, try making it a part of the celebrations at your home.
"Jagannath’s favourite beverage, Ghasa is believed to have medicinal properties. The exact ingredients are not know till date, and is a temple secret"
– Ashoka Manjuri Nayak, heritage enthusiast
Ada Hengu Khichdi
Rice (1 cup) n Green moong (soaked, 1/2 cup)
Coconut (chopped, 2-3 tbsp, grated- 1/3 cup)
Peppercorn (10-12)
Ginger (2 1/2 inches)
Asafoetida (1/4 tsp)
Cloves (9-10)
Cardamom (Black- 1, green- 2)
Bay leaf (2)
Jaggery (2 tsp)
Ghee (4 tbsp)
Salt to taste
Preparation
Heat ghee in an earthen pot, add spices. Add rice, moong, shake to mix. Add water, chopped coconut, ginger, cook for 10 mins. Once done, add asafoetida dissolved in water, coconut, jaggery & salt. Cook on low flame for 5 mins. Let it rest for 10mins, once done, drizzle ghee.

– Compiled by Sweta Biswal