Chitau Pitha Recipe – A Traditional of Odia Festivals
Chitau Pitha (ଚିତଉ ପିଠା) is a classic Odia breakfast dish made from rice batter, coconut, and mild spices. Chitau Pitha Recipe – A Traditional of Odia Festivals during Manabasa Gurubar (Laxmi Puja). Known for its soft, fluffy texture and delicate flavor, Chitau Pitha pairs perfectly with chhena jhili, coconut chutney, or jaggery syrup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rice flour (chaula chunna) or soaked rice
- ½ cup fresh grated coconut (nadia kora)
- 1 tbsp crushed black pepper (gol maricha)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 tsp salt (luna)
- 2 cups water (for batter consistency)
- 1 tbsp ghee (for greasing)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tsp ginger paste (ada bata)
- 1-2 green chilies (kancha lanka)
- Jaggery syrup (guda paani) for sweet version
Step-by-Step Preparation of Chitau Pitha Odisha Recipe
- Step-1: Prepare the Rice Batter
- Soak rice (if using raw rice):
- Wash & soak 1 cup basmati/sona masuri rice for 4-5 hours.
- Grind into a smooth paste with little water.
- (Skip if using store-bought rice flour.)
Mix dry ingredients:
- In a bowl, combine rice flour, grated coconut, cumin, black pepper, salt, and green chilies (optional).
- Gradually add water to make a thin, lump-free batter (similar to dosa batter).
Step 2: Steam the Pitha
Heat a greased steamer/idli stand:
- Brush ghee on small bowls/leaf molds (traditionally used).
- Pour a ladle of batter into each mold.
- Steam for 10-12 minutes:
- Place in a steamer/cooker (without whistle) on medium flame.
- Check with a toothpick – if it comes out clean, it’s done.
Step 3: Serve Hot
- Gently remove from molds.
- Serve with:
- Chhena jhili (cottage cheese curry)
- Coconut chutney (nadia chutney)
- Jaggery syrup (guda paani) for sweet variant
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Tips for Perfect Chitau Pitha
✔ Batter consistency should be slightly runny (not thick like idli batter).
✔ Fresh coconut enhances flavor; avoid desiccated coconut.
✔ Steam on medium flame to avoid a rubbery texture.
✔ Use banana leaves for an authentic aroma (if available).
Festival Significance & Occasions
- Chitau Pitha is deeply tied to Odia culture:
- Manabasa Gurubar: Offered to Goddess Laxmi.
- Prasa Gurubar (Thursday fasting): Eaten as satvik food.
- Breakfast staple in rural Odisha.
Health Benefits of Chitau Pitha
✅ Gluten-free & easily digestible (good for kids & elderly).
✅ Rich in fiber (from coconut & rice).
✅ Low-fat compared to fried pithas like manda or kakara.
Variations of Chitau Pitha
- Sweet Chitau Pitha: Add jaggery syrup instead of salt.
- Spicy Version: Mix chopped onions & curry leaves.
- Milky Chitau: Replace water with coconut milk for richness.
Chitau Pitha is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Odia heritage. With this easy recipe, you can recreate the authentic taste at home. Perfect for festivals, breakfast, or snacks, this steamed delight is a must-try!
Try it today & share your experience in the comments!
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