Bisi Bele Bath Recipe 2026 With MTR Paste Easy Cooking Process

Bisi Bele Bath Recipe 2026 With MTR Paste Easy Cooking Process is a classic South Indian rice-and-lentil dish that’s spicy, tangy, wholesome, and perfect for lunches or dinners year-round. Originating in Karnataka at the Mysore Palace centuries ago, this rice dish gets its name from the Kannada words *bisi* (“hot”), *bele* (“lentils”), and *bath* (“rice or cooked grain”).

Recipe Card

Ingredients With Exact Quantities

• Rice: 1.5 cups (uncooked, long-grain or sona masuri)
• Toor Dal (Pigeon Pea Lentils): 0.75 cups
• MTR Bisi Bele Bath Masala Paste: 3 tablespoons
• Mixed Vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, potato): 2 cups, diced
• Tamarind Pulp: 2 tablespoons (soak small lemon-sized ball tamarind in ¼ cup warm water, then extract juice)
• Oil/Ghee: 2 tablespoons (1 tbsp each)
• Mustard Seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Hing (Asafoetida): ¼ teaspoon
• Curry Leaves: 10–12 leaves
• Turmeric Powder: ½ teaspoon
• Salt: 1.5 teaspoons (or to taste)
• Jaggery: 1 teaspoon (optional, balances tamarind)
• Cashews: 10–12 (for garnish)
• Water: ~4–5 cups (as needed for cooking consistency)

Equipment Needed

• Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot
• Large Heavy Bottom Pan or Kadai
• Mixing Bowl
• Ladle and Spatula
• Knife & Cutting Board

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Rinse and Soak

Wash the rice and toor dal in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak together for 15–20 minutes. This decreases cooking time and helps the rice and dal cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook Rice & Dal (20 mins)

In a pressure cooker, add the soaked rice, toor dal, turmeric powder, and 3 cups water. Close the lid and cook for 4–5 whistles on medium heat (about ~15 mins). Turn off the heat and allow pressure to release naturally. The dal should be soft and mushy — this is essential for a creamy texture. Understanding Bisi Bele Bath Recipe 2026 is essential.

Step 3: Prepare Tamarind Extract (5 mins)

Soak tamarind in warm water for 5 minutes. Squeeze by hand and strain to remove fibers. Set the tangy juice aside for later. This sour note is signature to this dish.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables (8–10 mins)

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil/ghee in a heavy bottom pan. Add mustard seeds. Once they crackle, add curry leaves and hing. Add diced mixed vegetables and sauté on medium heat for 5–6 minutes until they start to soften. Add a pinch of salt to help them cook.

Step 5: Add Masala Paste & Tamarind (4 mins)

Lower the heat. Add MTR Bisi Bele Bath Masala Paste (3 tbsp), jaggery (if using), and tamarind extract. Stir well for 2–3 minutes until the paste dissolves into the vegetables and there’s a fragrant aroma. This is the heart of the flavor. This relates to Bisi Bele Bath Recipe 2026.

Step 6: Combine With Rice & Dal (5 mins)

Slowly add the cooked rice and dal mixture to the vegetable masala pan. Add 1–1.5 cups of hot water (adjust consistency as you like — more water for soupy, less for thick). Gently fold everything together so the rice doesn’t break too much. Cook on low flame for 3–4 minutes.

Step 7: Tempering & Garnish (3 mins)

In a small tadka pan, heat 1 tablespoon ghee. Add cashews and roast until golden. Pour this ghee and cashew mix over the hot Bisi Bele Bath. Cover immediately with a lid — this traps the aroma and gives an authentic restaurant-like finish.

Pro Tips From Personal Cooking Experience

• When I visited Karnataka in 2024, I noticed almost every home adds a bit of jaggery — very small — to balance the tamarind tang without making it sweet.
• What surprised me was how the consistency changes as it cools — always serve piping hot, ideally within 10 minutes of cooking.
• I personally recommend adding a splash more tamarind extract if you love a tangy punch — don’t be shy, it defines the dish.
• Press the rice lightly with your ladle — the slight mash creates that creamy “bath” you see in iconic Mysore plates.
• If your toor dal grains aren’t smooth, cook them a few minutes longer — grainy dal alters the texture significantly.

Chef’s Notes

Substitutions & Variations

• Rice Alternatives: You can use brown rice or mixed millets if preferred (adjust cooking water/time accordingly).
• Vegetarian Add-Ons: Capsicum, brinjal, and peas work exceptionally well.
• Ghee Free: Use pure coconut oil for a vegan version.
• Make It Spicier: Add ½ tsp red chili powder.
• Instant Pot Version: Set to high pressure for 6 minutes for cooked rice/dal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Up to 1 month (thaw overnight in fridge).
• Reheat: Microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to loosen texture.
• Leftovers: Use as a filling for stuffed parathas or add yogurt for a quick lunch bowl.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

These values are approximate and depend on the specific brands and exact quantities you use. A balanced dish with lentils, rice, and veggies ensures a wholesome meal. Learn more about Bisi Bele Bath Recipe 2026.

Why Bisi Bele Bath Is Beloved

Bisi Bele Bath isn’t just comfort food — it’s a cultural gem. In Karnataka homes, it’s served during festivals, family lunches, and special events. The layered flavors — tangy tamarind, aromatic spices, creamy rice and lentils — make it irresistible.

Some families guard their spice blends for generations, a tradition passed down like heirloom recipes. This dish reflects the heart of South Indian cooking: simplicity, balance, and bold flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot in deep bowls with a drizzle of ghee on top.
• Pair with crunchy papad or homemade boondi.
• A side of coconut chutney or simple raita complements this dish.
• For restaurant style presentation, garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

FAQs

Can I make this without a pressure cooker?

Yes, cook rice and dal separately in a heavy pot with sufficient water until very soft. Expect at least 30–35 minutes of stovetop cooking time. This relates to bisi bele bath recipe 2026.

Is MTR Paste the same as Bisi Bele Bath Powder?

MTR Paste is a ready-to-use masala mixture made by the brand. It substitutes fresh homemade powder, saving time and ensuring consistent flavor.

How can I adjust consistency?

Add water ½ cup at a time while simmering until you reach desired soupier or thicker texture.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends on your masala paste and amount of chilies. Mild versions are popular for kids’ lunch boxes; add extra paste for adult palates. This relates to bisi bele bath recipe 2026.

Can I prepare this ahead for a party?

Yes — cook rice/dal and veggies ahead. Combine with masala just before serving to retain freshness.

For historical information on this dish’s origin and cultural significance, you can check out the Bisi Bele Bath Wikipedia Page.