Chhena Poda (The Indian Ricotta Cheesecake)

Chhena Poda – The OG Indian Burnt Cheesecake

Long before Basque burnt cheesecake stole the show, Odisha had already mastered the art of caramelised indulgence. Chhena Poda — India’s very own ricotta cheesecake — is made with fresh chhena, a hint of cardamom, and baked till the edges caramelise into golden perfection. Baked traditionally in sal leaves, it carries a rustic, earthy charm that’s smoky, sweet, and soul-soothing. Bold like Basque, but deeply rooted in Indian tradition.