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A classic Odia sweet made from fresh chhena (paneer), lightly fried until golden brown and soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. It has a delightful, slightly chewy and grainy texture that sets it apart from other Indian sweets.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Chhena
Knead the Dough
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A classic Odia sweet made from fresh chhena (paneer), lightly fried until golden brown and soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. It has a delightful, slightly chewy and grainy texture that sets it apart from other Indian sweets.
This odia recipe takes 60 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 388.25 calories per serving with 13.33g of protein, it's a moderately challenging recipe perfect for dessert or snack.
Shape the Gajas
Prepare the Sugar Syrup
Fry the Chhena Gaja
Soak and Serve
Add 1 teaspoon of rose water or kewra water to the sugar syrup for a beautiful floral aroma.
Sprinkle with finely chopped pistachios or slivered almonds before serving for added texture and visual appeal.
Add a few strands of saffron to the warm sugar syrup to impart a delicate flavor and a lovely golden hue.
Chhena is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and building body tissues.
Made from milk, Chhena Gaja provides calcium, which is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
The combination of sugar and ghee offers a quick source of energy, making it a fulfilling sweet after a meal.
This usually happens if the chhena is over-kneaded or if it was too dry to begin with. Also, frying on high heat can make the outside hard quickly while the inside remains uncooked.
For authentic texture and taste, homemade chhena is highly recommended. Store-bought paneer is often too firm and dense, which will result in a hard Gaja.
The chhena is ready when it becomes completely smooth, loses its grainy texture, and starts to release a little fat, making your palm feel slightly greasy. The final dough should be smooth and free of any cracks.
Chhena Gaja is a traditional dessert and is high in sugar and fat due to deep frying and sugar syrup. It should be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
One serving of 4 pieces contains approximately 450-500 calories, primarily from sugar, ghee, and milk solids.
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.