The process of making Khira Gaintha is a labor of love. Raw rice is carefully ground and shaped into small balls, symbolizing purity and devotion. These rice balls are then immersed in thickened milk, infused with saffron and cardamom, creating a heavenly concoction fit for the gods. The addition of coconut scrap and almond slivers adds texture and flavor, elevating the dish to a divine offering.
Baula Amavasya, a vibrant festival celebrated in Odisha, is a tapestry woven with various rituals and traditions that hold deep cultural and religious significance. Falling on the new moon day of the Hindu month of Pausha, typically in December or January according to the Odia almanac, this festival is a testament to the rich heritage of Odisha.
At the heart of Baula Amavasya lies the profound affection of Lord Srikrishna for mangoes. During the Dola festival in Phalguna (March), mango flowers (Amba Baula) and freshly plucked mangoes in clusters (Amba Pentha) embellish the Dola Biman as Lord Radha Krishna venture out in palanquins to receive offerings from devotees. This celebration epitomizes the symbolism of love, with devotees presenting mangoes as offerings to the deities and reverently worshiping mango trees as they begin to bloom with flowers.
However, it’s on the day of Baula Amavasya itself that a unique culinary tradition takes center stage – Khira Gaintha. These delectable cakes, crafted from raw rice (arua), hold profound importance in the festivities. Known as Baula Gaintha, these cakes are not merely culinary delights; they are offerings to the divine. The ritual of preparing and offering Khira Gaintha is steeped in symbolism and belief.
Legend has it that offering Khira Gaintha to the deities on Baula Amavasya holds the power to stimulate the blossoming of mango tree branches. This belief is deeply ingrained in the hearts of devotees, instilling a sense of anticipation and excitement. Families gather near mango trees, eagerly hurling Baula Gaintha in the hopes of witnessing a miraculous display of flowers on the revered trees. It’s a ritual that bridges the mundane with the divine, intertwining culinary tradition with spiritual significance.
Ganitha refers to rice balls shaped by hand after during the Jantani method, where rice flour is cooked in water to form a dough-like consistency. These rice balls can vary in shape, from spherical to elongated, depending on the maker’s preference. Ganitha adds a unique touch to dishes like Khira Gaintha,Guda Gaintha and Boula Gaintha contributing both flavor and visual appeal to the final dish.
The process of making Khira Gaintha is a labor of love. Raw rice is carefully ground and shaped into small balls, symbolizing purity and devotion. These rice balls are then immersed in thickened milk, infused with saffron and cardamom, creating a heavenly concoction fit for the gods. The addition of coconut scrap and almond slivers adds texture and flavor, elevating the dish to a divine offering.
As Khira Gaintha is lovingly presented to the deities, it symbolizes the devotion and reverence of the devotees. Each bite is imbued with the essence of spirituality, a communion between the mortal and the divine. The ritual of offering Khira Gaintha serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of food, faith, and culture, highlighting the cultural richness and spiritual fervor of Odisha’s traditions.
In essence, Khira Gaintha embodies the essence of Baula Amavasya – a celebration of tradition, devotion, and community. It’s a culinary journey that transcends the ordinary, offering a glimpse into the sacred realm of spirituality and belief. As families come together to celebrate this joyous occasion, they partake in a feast for the senses and the soul, savoring the flavors of tradition and the sweetness of devotion.
Kheera Gaintha
Ingredients
**For the Thickened Milk:**
- 1 Liter milk
- Cardamom powder
- Almonds
- Coconut scrap (desired amount for flavor)
**For the Rice Balls (from Jantani):**
- 1½ Cup Water
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp Ghee
- 1 Cup Rice Flour
Instructions
#### Make the Rice Balls (from Jantani):
- In a kadhai or wide-bottomed pan, add 1 cup of water and bring it to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Inn a separate bowl, mix the rice flour with water to form a smooth paste.
- Slowly pour the mixed rice flour and water paste into the boiling water in the kadhai while stirring continuously.
- Use a spoon or spatula to ensure the mixture is well combined and free of lumps.
- Allow the mixture to boil over medium heat while stirring constantly.
- As the mixture thickens, continue stirring until it forms a dough-like consistency. This process may take a few minutes.
- Once the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
- While the mixture is still warm, knead it with 2 tsp of ghee until smooth and pliable.
- Take small portions of the dough and roll them between your palms to form small balls. Ensure the balls are smooth and free of cracks.
#### Prepare the Thickened Milk:
- In a saucepan, bring 1 liter of milk to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the milk simmer until it reduces by about thirty percent.
- After boiling the rice, collect about 2 spoons of the boiled rice infusion. ( Process of Jantani )
- Add the collected boiled rice infusion along with cardamom powder, almonds, and coconut scrap for flavor to the simmering milk. Stir well.
- Continue to simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside.
#### Form Khira Gaintha:
- Once the rice balls (from Jantani) are formed, gently add them to the prepared thickened milk.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Allow the Khira Gaintha to cool slightly.
- Optionally, garnish with additional coconut scrap or almonds before serving.
#### Serving:
- Serve Khira Gaintha chilled or at room temperature, as desired.
- Enjoy this traditional Odia delicacy with your loved ones!
Notes
- Milk: 1 liter (approximately 640 calories)
- Cardamom powder: Negligible calories (used in very small quantity)
- Almonds: 8 almonds (approximately 56 calories)
- Coconut scrap: Depends on the amount used (calories may vary)
- Rice flour: 1 cup (approximately 578 calories)
- Ghee: 2 teaspoons (approximately 86 calories)
Khira Gaintha is a delightful traditional Odia delicacy prepared during festivals like Baula Amavasya. This creamy dessert consists of rice balls immersed in thickened milk, flavored with cardamom, almonds, and coconut scrap. The rice balls are made using the Jantani method, where rice flour is cooked in water to form a dough-like consistency and then shaped into balls. The thickened milk is prepared by simmering milk with various flavorings until it reduces and thickens. Khira Gaintha is served chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect treat to enjoy with loved ones during festive occasions.
