Chhatu Besara

Introduction

Chhatu Besara is a tangy and spicy dish of mushrooms cooked in a mustard-poppy seed paste, a specialty from rural Odisha. The mustard gives it a pungent kick that pairs beautifully with plain rice.

1. Preparing the Mustard Paste

Ingredients:

● 2 tbsp mustard seeds

● 1 tbsp poppy seeds

● 2–3 garlic cloves

● 1 green chili

● Water (as needed)

Instructions:
● Soak mustard and poppy seeds for 30 minutes.

● Grind with garlic and green chili into a fine paste.

2. Cooking the Chhatu (Mushrooms)

Ingredients:

● 1.5 cups chopped mushrooms

● 1 tbsp mustard oil

● ½ tsp panch phoron

● 1 dry red chili

● Salt and turmeric to taste

● Mustard-poppy paste

● ½ cup water

Instructions:
● Heat oil, add panch phoron and dry chili.

● Add mushrooms, salt, and turmeric. Sauté for 5 mins.

● Add mustard paste and water. Cook covered for 10–12 mins.

3. Pro Tips for Perfect Besara

● Use fresh mushrooms for best results.

● Always sauté mustard paste briefly to reduce bitterness.

4. Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with plain steamed rice and dal.

5. Fun Fact

Besara-style dishes are unique to Odisha and are part of the famous Mahaprasad served at Jagannath Temple.