We all know about Tanka Torani in Odisha. Nowadays, Tanka is distributed freely at Badadanda (Grand Road) and the corners of the town connected to the Lord Jagannath Temple. But today is the day when we start distributing Tanka Torani: the day of Odia Naba Barsha – Maha Bisubha Sankranti.
In the heart of Odisha, amidst the sacred ambiance of Jaganath Puri, lies a tradition that quenches not only thirst but also the soul. Tanka Torani, a rice-based drink, holds a significant place in the culinary heritage of the region. This refreshing beverage, deeply rooted in religious offerings and cultural practices, has been a staple for generations of devotees.
The Tradition:
Tanka Torani traces its origins back to the 10th century AD, believed to be first prepared as an offering to Lord Jagannath. Made from Arnna, the plain rice offered as Mahaprasad, this drink holds a sacred status among devotees. The process begins with fermenting Arnna in water, followed by mashing it with curd and enhancing its flavor with simple ingredients available within the temple premises.
Tanka Torani – Avada Torani
Ingredients
- 1 cup cup abhada Anna or cooked rice
- 3 tbsp yogurt (curd)
- 1 inch mango ginger
- 7-8 lemon leaves
- 4-5 green chilies
- 2-4 lemon slices
- ½ Lemon
- ½ tbsp roasted cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- In a deep bowl, mix the Anna – cooked rice with sufficient water. Cover the bowl and let it ferment for 1-2 days or at least 18-20 hours.
- Strain the rice and keep aside the water (torani).
- Mash the rice well using own hand.
- Add well-beaten yogurt and torani to the mashed rice and mix well.
- Roughly muddle mango ginger, lemon leaves, coriander leaves, and green chilies, then add them to the rice mixture.
- Squeeze half a lemon and add the lemon slices, lemon leaves, and salt.
- Mix all the water (torani)
- Add smoked small amount of jira chonked
- Pour the Tanka Torani into serving bowls or glasses.
- Serve and enjoy this refreshing drink!
As the distribution of Tanka Torani commences, the atmosphere is electrifying. From the young to the old, everyone eagerly lines up, their faces adorned with smiles and anticipation. Each sip of the tangy-sweet concoction is not just a refreshment for the body but a nourishment for the soul, a reminder of the divine blessings showered upon them.