Embark on a Culinary journey through the vivid tastes of South India with our Bisi Bele Bhaat recipe. This traditional meal from the state of Karnataka is a wonderful medley of rice, lentils, and a fragrant spice blend that creates a symphony of flavor and texture. Bisi Bele Bhaat, which translates to “hot lentil rice” in Kannada, is a filling one-pot dinner that blends spiciness, tanginess, and a tinge of sweetness.
History:
Bisi Bele Bhaat is rooted in Karnataka’s rich cultural tapestry, with a centuries-long tradition. It has long been a mainstay in South Indian households, passed down through generations and enjoyed on festive occasions. The meal symbolizes the region’s agricultural bounty, with locally cultivated spices and lentils adding to its distinct flavor profile.
Bisi Bele Bhaat Recipe
Bisi Bele Bhaat
Equipment
- 1 Pressurecooker
- 1 Large mixing spoon
- 1 Cooking pot
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
Ingredients
- - 1 cup rice
- - 1/2 cup toor dal split pigeon peas
- - 1/4 cup chana dal split chickpeas
- - 1 cup mixed vegetables carrots, peas, beans
- - 1 large onion finely chopped
- - 2 large tomatoes chopped
- - 3 tablespoons Bisi Bele Bhaat masala powder readily available or homemade
- - 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
- - 2 tablespoons ghee clarified butter
- - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- - 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- - 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida hing
- - 8-10 curry leaves
- - 2 tablespoons cashews chopped
- - 2 tablespoons peanuts
- - Salt to taste
- - Chopped coriander for garnish
Notes
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
1. Prepare the Rice and Lentils: - Rinse Rice and Lentils thoroughly. - In a pressure cooker, add the rice, toor dal, and chana dal with adequate water. - Cook for 3-4 whistles, until the lentils are tender and the rice is thoroughly cooked. 2. To sauté the vegetables: - Heat ghee in a large frying pot. - Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and hing, and allow to sputter. - Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. - Add tomatoes and simmer until mushy. - Add the mixed vegetables and simmer for 5 minutes. 3. Mix in Bisi Bele Bhaat Masala - Powder and Tamarind Paste. - Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to enable the flavors to mingle. 4. Combine Rice and Lentils: - Add cooked rice and lentils to pot with veggies. - Mix thoroughly, ensuring that the masala coats the rice and lentils equally. 5. For tempering, - Heat ghee in a small pan. - Combine the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, chopped cashews, peanuts, and curry leaves. - Once the cashews have turned golden, pour the tempering over the Bisi Bele Bhaat. 6. Final Touch: - Adding salt to taste and gently mixing everything. - Let the Bisi Bele Bhaat simmer for 5-10 minutes on low heat to enable the flavors to blend. 7. Serve - Garnished with chopped coriander. - Serve hot with raita or papad.Conclusion:
Bisi Bele Bhaat celebrates South Indian culinary heritage. As you sip each spoonful, you’ll feel the warmth of tradition and the bright flavors that make this meal a perennial favorite. Enjoy a journey through the flavors of Karnataka with our carefully created dish, ideal for bringing the family together over a wonderful, comfortable supper.
Equipment List:
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