Hickory Masala Bisi Bele

Introduction to Hickory Masala Bisi Bele

Bisi Bele Bath is a delicious and traditional rice-based dish that originates from Karnataka, a state in southern India. The name literally translates to "hot lentil rice" in Kannada, which perfectly describes this spicy and comforting concoction made by blending rice, lentils, and vegetables infused with a special spice mix. We put a unique twist on this classic by introducing hickory smoke flavor, adding a delightful depth to the dish that pays homage to wood-smoked dishes familiar in other culinary traditions. Hickory Masala Bisi Bele is perfect for those who wish to explore a fusion of flavors, enjoy a wholesome meal, or simply crave a taste of authentic Indian cuisine with an innovative twist.

Ingredients

To begin with your flavorful journey of making Hickory Masala Bisi Bele, gather the following ingredients:

• Rice - 1 cup
• Toor Dal (pigeon peas) - 1/2 cup
• Water - 4 cups
• Mixed Vegetables (carrots, potatoes, green beans, peas) - 2 cups
• Onion - 1 large, sliced
• Tomatoes - 2, chopped
• Hickory Smoked Salt - 1 tsp
• Mustard Seeds - 1/2 tsp
• Curry Leaves - 10-12 leaves
• Ghee - 2 tbsp
• Bisi Bele Bath Powder - 3 tbsp
• Tamarind Paste - 1 tbsp
• Grated Coconut - 1/4 cup
• Peanuts - a handful
• Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp
• Dried Red Chilies - 2-3
• Coriander Leaves - for garnish
• Cook Time - 45 mins

Preparation Steps for Hickory Masala Bisi Bele

Making Hickory Masala Bisi Bele requires some preparation before diving into the cooking process. Here’s how you can make sure everything is ready:

1. Rinse rice and toor dal. Soak them in water separately for 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the spice mix by gently dry-roasting mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies in a pan. Set aside after roasting.

3. Measure out the Bisi Bele Bath Powder and tamarind paste, and keep them handy.

4. Chop all vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.

5. Prepare garnishing ingredients such as coriander leaves and roasted peanuts.

Cooking Process

With the preparation ready, we can now embark on cooking the Hickory Masala Bisi Bele:

1. In a pressure cooker, add soaked toor dal along with 2 cups of water, a pinch of turmeric powder, and cook it until fully softened (3-4 whistles).

2. Simultaneously, in a large pot, bring the remaining 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice, chopped vegetables, hickory smoked salt, and cook until the rice and vegetables are tender.

3. Once toor dal is cooked, add it to the pot with rice and vegetables along with Bisi Bele Bath Powder, tomatoes, and tamarind paste.

4. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring the spices are distributed evenly. Simmer until the flavors blend harmoniously.

5. In a separate pan, heat ghee, and add prepared roasted spices: mustard seeds, curry leaves, dried red chilies, and roasted peanuts.

6. Pour the tempering over the simmered Bisi Bele mixture and mix well.

7. Finally, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and grated coconut for an aromatic finish.

Serving Suggestions

Hickory Masala Bisi Bele is best enjoyed hot. Serve it in a wide bowl and pair it with crispy snacks like papad or raita for a balanced meal. The hickory smoked flavor adds a comforting note that makes this dish both unique and satisfying.