Last Updated:
This version of Bisi Bele Bath is lighter, quicker and ideal for those who want the same flavour without rice. Poha absorbs spices quickly giving authentic Karnataka flavour.
While traditional Bisi Bele Bath uses rice, it can sometimes feel heavy for breakfast. Poha, on the other hand, cooks faster, absorbs flavours beautifully, and feels easier on the stomach (Image: X)
South Indians know there’s no better comfort food than a bowl of steaming-hot Bisi Bele Bath — the beloved lentil-rice dish that warms both the stomach and the soul. Traditionally made with rice, dal, vegetables, and a touch of tamarind, this dish is hearty, nutritious, and deeply rooted in Karnataka’s culinary heritage.
But what if we gave this age-old favourite a light, modern twist? Enter Poha Bisi Bele Bath a quicker, softer, and equally satisfying version of the classic, made using flattened rice (poha). Perfect for rushed mornings or lazy weekends, it’s the same rich flavour with a lighter texture and a shorter cooking time.
The Idea Behind the Twist
While traditional Bisi Bele Bath uses rice, it can sometimes feel heavy for breakfast. Poha, on the other hand, cooks faster, absorbs flavours beautifully, and feels easier on the stomach. This recipe is ideal for those who crave comfort food without the carb overload. Plus, it makes for a wholesome one-pot meal that’s nutritious and packed with flavour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- Thick Poha (Avalakki) – 2 cups
- Moong Dal (Hesaru Bele) – ½ cup
- Peas – ½ cup
- Mixed Vegetables (Beans, Carrot, Knol-khol/Kohlrabi, Peas, Potato) – 2 cups
- Onion – 1 large, chopped
- Capsicum – 1 medium, chopped
- Bisi Bele Bath Powder – 2–3 tablespoons
- Turmeric – ½ teaspoon
- Tamarind – size of a small lemon
- Jaggery – a small piece
- Salt – to taste
For Tempering (Oggarane):
- Ghee or Oil – 2–4 tablespoons
- Mustard Seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Peanuts – a handful
- Cashew Nuts – a few
- Dry Coconut Pieces – a few
- Curry Leaves – 1 sprig
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prep the Vegetables:Chop all the vegetables and cook them lightly in water until just tender. Avoid overcooking — the vegetables should hold their shape. Set aside the onion and capsicum for later.
- Cook the Dal:In a pressure cooker, add moong dal, turmeric, and enough water. Cook until soft and mushy. Once the pressure releases, mash the dal well and keep it ready.
- Soak the Poha:Rinse the poha gently in water, drain it completely, and let it rest. Poha softens quickly, so avoid soaking it for too long.
- Build the Base:Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the chopped onion and capsicum, sauté until translucent, and then add the cooked vegetables and mashed dal.
- Add Flavour:Mix in the tamarind pulp, salt, and Bisi Bele Bath powder. Stir well to ensure there are no lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes. Add a small piece of jaggery for that signature sweet-sour-spicy balance.
- Combine with Poha:Add the drained poha to this bubbling mixture. Adjust consistency by adding a little hot water if it feels too thick. Cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The poha will absorb the spices beautifully, turning soft and flavourful.
- Prepare the Tempering:In a separate small pan, heat ghee or oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add peanuts, coconut pieces, and cashews. Roast gently until golden brown. Toss in the curry leaves and immediately pour this aromatic tempering over the prepared Poha Bisi Bele Bath.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dish hot, garnished with a spoonful of ghee on top for that irresistible shine and aroma. It pairs beautifully with crunchy potato chips or a handful of spicy khara boondi. A chilled bowl of curd on the side balances the flavours perfectly.
Why Poha Bisi Bele Bath Works
This version of Bisi Bele Bath is lighter, quicker, and ideal for those who want the same flavour without waiting for rice to cook. Poha absorbs the tamarind and spice mix quickly, giving you an instant burst of authentic Karnataka flavour. Plus, since it uses dal, vegetables, and minimal oil, it’s rich in protein, fibre, and vitamins — a wholesome start to your day.
Whether you’re a working professional short on time or someone craving a comforting homemade meal, Poha Bisi Bele Bath hits the perfect spot between tradition and convenience. It’s proof that sometimes, a small twist on a classic dish can bring an entirely new kind of joy to your kitchen.
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi…Read More
Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi… Read More
October 31, 2025, 15:45 IST
Stay Ahead, Read Faster
Scan the QR code to download the News18 app and enjoy a seamless news experience anytime, anywhere.
