Avalakki Bisi Bele Bhat – Healthy South Indian Poha Lentil Delight
Avalakki Bisi Bele Bhat Recipe
A simple yet hearty South Indian delight with the goodness of vegetables, lentils, and the warmth of spices, all in one bowl!
Description:
Avalakki Bisi Bele Bhat is a delicious twist on the traditional South Indian Bisi Bele Bhat, made using aval (flattened rice) or poha instead of rice. This dish is a nutritious, wholesome, and satisfying meal that combines the goodness of lentils, vegetables, and fragrant spices. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s comforting and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened Rice) | 2 cups |
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup |
| Mixed Vegetables (chopped) | 2 cups (carrots, beans, potatoes, peas, broad beans, chow-chow) |
| Bisi Bele Bhat Spice Powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Tamarind Water | 1 cup |
| Dry Coconut (kopra), shredded | 1 tablespoon |
| Tomatoes (roughly chopped) | 2 |
| Jaggery | 2 teaspoons |
| Water | 3 cups |
| Ghee | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Ingredients for Seasoning:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 2 teaspoons |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 2 teaspoons |
| Curry Leaves | 10 leaves |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) or Cashew Nuts | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Instructions:
-
Cook the Dal:
- Begin by cooking the toor dal (Arhar dal) along with a pinch of turmeric. Add just enough water to avoid it becoming mushy, ensuring it retains its texture. Set the dal aside once cooked.
-
Steam the Vegetables:
- Steam your mix of vegetables (carrots, beans, potatoes, peas, broad beans, chow-chow), being careful not to overcook them. They should remain slightly firm and retain their color and nutrients.
-
Prepare the Poha:
- Rinse the poha (flattened rice) thoroughly in water. Gently drain and set it aside to soften.
-
Cook the Mixture:
- Heat a large pan with a teaspoon of sesame oil. Add the steamed vegetables to the pan. Stir in the Bisi Bele Bhat spice powder and tamarind water. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a quarter to half a cup of water. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
-
Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the cooked dal to the vegetable mixture, followed by the washed poha, shredded dry coconut, chopped tomatoes, jaggery, salt, and the 3 cups of water. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the pan, lower the heat to medium, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together beautifully.
-
Add the Ghee:
- Near the end of the cooking time, stir in the 2 teaspoons of ghee. This will add a rich, smooth finish to the dish.
- The consistency of the Avalakki Bisi Bele Bhat should be slightly watery, not thick. Turn the heat down to low.
-
Prepare the Seasoning:
- In a small pan, heat 2 teaspoons of sesame oil. Add the mustard seeds and let them crackle. Then, add the urad dal (split) and sauté until it turns golden brown.
- Next, add the curry leaves and asafoetida, allowing them to release their aroma. Toss in the raw peanuts or cashew nuts and roast for a couple of minutes.
- Finally, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent.
-
Finish the Dish:
- Once the seasoning is ready, pour it over the cooked Avalakki Bisi Bele Bhat. Stir everything together, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Turn off the heat and let the dish rest, covered, for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the consistency to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Avalakki Bisi Bele Bhat is best enjoyed with a side of boondi raita (crunchy yogurt and fried chickpea balls) and some namkeen (salty snacks) for a delightful lunch or dinner. The dish pairs wonderfully with a cooling beverage, like buttermilk or fresh coconut water.
Notes:
- Consistency: As the dish sits, it tends to thicken. If you prefer a more soupy texture, add a little more water while cooking or just before serving.
- Flavor Profile: The tanginess from tamarind, sweetness from jaggery, and warmth from the spices make this dish wonderfully balanced.
- Customizations: Feel free to adjust the vegetables to your liking. Some people like to add pumpkin or squash for an extra touch of sweetness.
This easy, flavorful, and healthy one-pot meal is a great option for busy days, and it brings the true essence of South Indian home-cooked comfort food right to your plate!
Enjoy your Avalakki Bisi Bele Bhat and share it with friends and family for a nourishing and satisfying meal!
