The culinary traditions of Puri, a city in the state of Odisha, India, have deep roots that intertwine with religious and cultural practices. Known for its famous Jagannath Temple, Puri's food history is largely attributed to the temple’s kitchen, which is considered one of the largest in the world. The temple food, known as 'Mahaprasad' or 'Abhada', consists of vegetarian dishes that are cooked in a traditional manner and are first offered to Lord Jagannath before being distributed among the devotees. This practice has greatly influenced the local cuisine, which is predominantly vegetarian, with an emphasis on rice, lentils, and a variety of vegetables cooked with less oil and minimal spices, highlighting their natural flavors.