Karnataka Style Bisi Bele Bath Recipe Authentic Karnataka Style Bisi Bele Bath Recipe | Spicy South Indian Rice Delight
Karnataka Style Bisi Bele Bath Recipe Discover the traditional Karnataka-style Bisi Bele Bath recipe — a flavorful, comforting South Indian rice dish made with lentils, tamarind, and homemade spice mix. Perfect for festive or everyday meals.
Bisi Bele Bath, meaning “hot lentil rice” in Kannada, is one of Karnataka’s most beloved traditional dishes. This spicy, tangy, and aromatic rice preparation is a wholesome one-pot meal that blends rice, toor dal, tamarind pulp, and freshly ground masala. Originating from the royal kitchens of Mysore, this dish embodies Karnataka’s culinary heritage and remains a comfort food across India.
In this article, we’ll dive into the authentic Karnataka-style Bisi Bele Bath recipe, exploring the cultural background, the perfect spice blend, and tips to achieve that temple-style flavor at home.
What is Bisi Bele Bath?
Bisi Bele Bath is a lentil-based rice dish infused with a unique spice mix called Bisi Bele Bath Powder. Unlike regular sambar rice, it uses a specific blend of roasted spices and lentils that give it depth and a distinctive aroma. The dish is traditionally served hot with ghee, boondi, or papad for added crunch.
Ingredients for Karnataka Style Bisi Bele Bath
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rice (sona masoori or ponni)
- ½ cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
- 1 lemon-sized ball of tamarind (soaked in warm water)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- ¼ cup green peas
- 1 small potato, cubed
- 10–12 curry leaves
- 2 tbsp ghee
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups water (adjust as needed)
For Tempering
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 2–3 dry red chilies
- 1 tsp urad dal
- 1 tsp chana dal
- A pinch of hing (asafoetida)
For Bisi Bele Bath Masala (Homemade Powder)
- 1 tbsp chana dal
- 1 tbsp urad dal
- 2 tbsp coriander seeds
- 6–8 dry red chilies
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 3–4 cloves
- ½ tsp fenugreek seeds
- 2 tbsp grated dry coconut
Roast all ingredients till aromatic and grind into a fine powder.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Cook Rice and Dal
Pressure cook the rice and toor dal together with 4 cups of water until soft and mushy. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Tamarind Extract
Soak tamarind in warm water for 15 minutes. Extract the juice and discard the pulp.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee. Add chopped onions, tomatoes, and all the vegetables. Sauté until slightly tender.
Step 4: Add Tamarind and Spices
Pour in the tamarind extract, salt, and 3 tablespoons of the freshly ground Bisi Bele Bath powder. Boil for 5–7 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Step 5: Combine Dal and Rice
Add the cooked dal-rice mixture to the pan and mix well. Adjust consistency by adding hot water if needed. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
Step 6: Tempering
In a small pan, heat ghee, add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, dry red chilies, curry leaves, and hing. Once they splutter, pour over the Bisi Bele Bath and mix well.
Serve hot with a spoonful of ghee on top, accompanied by boondi or papad.
Quick Facts
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: South Indian (Karnataka)
- Course: Main Course
Serving Suggestions
Traditionally, Bisi Bele Bath is served with ghee, kara boondi, or appalam (papad). A side of raita or curd helps balance the spice. Garnish with fried cashews for a festive touch.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Bisi Bele Bath in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of hot water to regain the soft, creamy texture.
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein: From toor dal and lentils.
- Energizing carbs: Rice provides steady energy.
- Digestive spices: Fenugreek, cumin, and hing improve gut health.
- Low in oil: Can be made lighter with less ghee.
Expert Tips for Perfect Bisi Bele Bath
- Use fresh homemade masala for the best aroma.
- Don’t skip ghee — it enhances flavor.
- The consistency should be slightly runny, not dry.
- Adjust tamarind and jaggery (optional) to balance tang and sweetness.
Regional and Cultural Insight
In Karnataka, Bisi Bele Bath is not just food — it’s tradition. Often prepared during festivals like Ugadi and family gatherings, it symbolizes warmth and hospitality. Each region, from Mysore to Bengaluru, adds its own touch — from the spice ratio to the addition of vegetables like drumsticks or beans.
Useful Links
- Learn how to make the perfect South Indian spice blend that forms the base for many Karnataka dishes.
- A comforting rice-lentil dish that pairs beautifully with coconut chutney.
- A tangy and aromatic rasam prepared in true Karnataka temple style.
- Explore authentic Karnataka dishes, traditional spices, and regional food festivals.
- Learn more about India’s diverse food heritage and regional specialties.
- Browse verified South Indian vegetarian recipes for inspiration.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between Bisi Bele Bath and Sambar Rice?
Bisi Bele Bath uses a unique spice blend with dry coconut and cinnamon, giving it a richer flavor than regular sambar rice.
2. Can I make Bisi Bele Bath without tamarind?
Tamarind adds tanginess; however, you can use lemon juice as a substitute.
3. What type of rice is best for Bisi Bele Bath?
Short-grain rice like sona masoori or ponni raw rice gives the ideal texture.
4. Can I prepare Bisi Bele Bath powder in advance?
Yes, store the powder in an airtight jar for up to 1 month to save time.
5. How to make Bisi Bele Bath vegan?
Replace ghee with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version.
The Karnataka Style Bisi Bele Bath Recipe is a timeless classic that captures the soul of South Indian cuisine. Its medley of lentils, rice, and spices creates a comfort meal like no other. Whether for a weekday dinner or festive spread, this dish brings authentic Karnataka flavors straight to your table.
👉 Try this recipe today and experience the magic of Mysore’s culinary heritage!
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Author: Bhimascook Editorial Team
About: Passionate about reviving authentic Indian vegetarian recipes, the Bhimascook team curates traditional dishes that celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage.
