Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Bisi Bele Bath Recipe – Authentic Karnataka Rice & Vegetable Dish

Introduction

Oh, Bisi Bele Bath! Just the name rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? This vibrant, flavorful dish from Karnataka is pure comfort food. It’s a complete meal in one pot – rice, lentils, vegetables, and a wonderfully aromatic spice blend. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s place; I was instantly hooked! It’s become a regular in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share my version with you. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the results are so worth it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bisi Bele Bath isn’t just delicious; it’s practical too! It’s a fantastic way to get a balanced meal on the table quickly. Plus, it’s wonderfully customizable – feel free to adjust the veggies and spice levels to your liking. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or even a festive occasion. You’ll love how the flavors meld together, creating a truly satisfying experience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this Karnataka classic:

• 1 cup seeraga samba rice
• 1.5 cups capsicum (cubed)
• 2 tablespoons Bisi bele bath powder
• 1 tomato (chopped)
• 0.25 teaspoon turmeric
• 0.5 teaspoon jaggery
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 0.5 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal
• 1 teaspoon chana dal
• 3 tablespoons peanuts
• 0.125 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 2 green chillies (slit)
• 1 sprig curry leaves

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients to make sure you get the best results:

Seeraga Samba Rice: A Traditional Grain

Seeraga Samba rice is a short-grain rice known for its aroma and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. It’s the traditional choice for Bisi Bele Bath. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with other short-grain rice varieties like sona masoori, but the texture will be slightly different. About 180g of rice is equivalent to 1 cup.

Bisi Bele Bath Powder: The Heart of the Dish – Regional Variations & Homemade Options

This spice blend is everything. You can find pre-made Bisi Bele Bath powder in most Indian grocery stores. However, the blend can vary slightly from region to region. Some versions are spicier, others more fragrant. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can absolutely make your own! There are tons of recipes online – it allows you to tailor the spice level perfectly. Typically, it contains a mix of coriander seeds, cumin seeds, red chillies, fenugreek seeds, and other aromatic spices.

Asafoetida (Hing): Usage & Benefits

Don’t skip the asafoetida! It adds a unique savory depth to the dish. A little goes a long way – it has a pungent smell in its raw form, but it mellows out beautifully when cooked. It’s also known for its digestive properties, which is a bonus after a flavorful meal like this.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them splutter – that’s how you know they’re ready!
2. Add the urad dal, chana dal, and peanuts. Sauté until the dals turn golden brown and the peanuts are lightly roasted.
3. Now, add the asafoetida, slit green chillies, and curry leaves. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. This is where your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Add the cubed capsicum and chopped tomato. Sprinkle in the salt and mix well. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the capsicum softens slightly.
5. Pour in ½ cup (120ml) of water. Add the turmeric and Bisi bele bath powder. Stir well to combine everything.
6. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Finally, add the cooked seeraga samba rice. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the rice is coated with the spice mixture.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the rice! It should be cooked separately before adding it to the vegetable mixture.
• Adjust the amount of Bisi Bele Bath powder to your spice preference. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you like it spicier.
• A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegetarian! To make it vegan, just ensure your Bisi Bele Bath powder doesn’t contain any dairy-derived ingredients.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Bisi Bele Bath powder or remove the green chillies. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Festival Adaptations (e.g., Makar Sankranti): My aunt always adds a handful of grated coconut during Makar Sankranti for a festive touch. It’s delicious!

Serving Suggestions

Bisi Bele Bath is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• A side of raita (yogurt dip) to cool down the spice.
• Papadums for a crunchy texture.
• A simple vegetable side dish like beans palya.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Bisi Bele Bath can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop!

FAQs

What is Bisi Bele Bath and where does it originate?

Bisi Bele Bath literally translates to “hot rice” in Kannada. It’s a traditional dish from the state of Karnataka in South India. It’s a staple in many households and is often served during festivals and special occasions.

Can I make Bisi Bele Bath powder at home?

Absolutely! It takes a bit of effort, but it’s worth it if you want to customize the spice blend. You can find many recipes online that detail the exact proportions of spices.

What type of rice is best for Bisi Bele Bath?

Seeraga Samba rice is the traditional choice. However, you can use other short-grain rice varieties like sona masoori as a substitute.

How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Reduce the amount of Bisi Bele Bath powder or remove the green chillies for a milder flavor. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Can this be made in an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Sauté the spices and vegetables using the sauté function, then add the rice, water, and Bisi Bele Bath powder. Cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.