Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than Bisi Bele Bath, a beloved South Indian one-pot wonder. This recipe delivers a delicious blend of rice, lentils, and vegetables in a rich and aromatic gravy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Bisi Bele Bath is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This easy recipe is ideal for those exploring healthy meals and homemade cooking, and it offers a fantastic alternative to your usual quick dinner ideas. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Toor Dal (split pigeon peas), rinsed
- 1 cup Basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes – diced)
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
- 1 inch ginger, finely grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal (split black lentils)
- 1/2 tsp chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- A few curry leaves
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dal and Rice: In a pressure cooker, combine the toor dal and rice with 3 cups of water. Add a pinch of salt and pressure cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal and rice are well-cooked.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add urad dal and chana dal and sauté until lightly golden.
- Add Spices and Vegetables: Add the chopped onions, green chilies, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent. Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and asafoetida. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Vegetables: Add the chopped tomatoes and mixed vegetables. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables slightly soften.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked dal and rice mixture to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Add salt to taste. Add a little water if needed to adjust the consistency. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Serve hot. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a dollop of yogurt or a side of papad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Bisi Bele Bath:
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated coconut instead of coconut oil.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can blend a portion of the cooked dal and rice before adding it to the pan.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower, eggplant, or spinach.
Variations:
- Spicy Bisi Bele Bath: Increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder for a spicier version.
- Vegan Bisi Bele Bath: Ensure all ingredients used are vegan-friendly.
- Bisi Bele Bath with Cashews: Add roasted cashews for extra richness and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 60-70g Fiber: Approximately 8-10g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size. Enjoy this healthy and delicious South Indian masterpiece! This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, homemade cooking and is among the best recipes for flavorful, easy meals. It's sure to become a staple in your quick dinner ideas rotation!