Bisi Bele Bath Powder: Karnataka’s One-Pot Masala
The aromatic masala that turns rice, dal and vegetables into Karnataka’s favourite hot one-pot meal.
What it is
“Bisi bele bath” means hot lentil rice. The powder is richer than sambar powder — with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, and often dry coconut — so the rice tastes deep and aromatic.
What usually goes into it
- Coriander seeds, chana dal and urad dal
- Dried red chillies
- Cinnamon, cloves and black pepper
- Dry coconut (kopra)
- Fenugreek, poppy seeds and curry leaves
Blends vary from kitchen to kitchen — check the ingredient list printed on your Khushilo pack for the exact recipe.
How to use it
- Pressure-cook rice and toor dal together until very soft
- Cook vegetables in tamarind water with a little jaggery
- Stir in the powder, then mix in the rice-dal and loosen with hot water
- Finish with a generous ghee tadka and cashews
How much to use
- 3 tablespoons for 4 servings
- It thickens as it rests — add hot water before serving
Goes well with
Sambar Powder · Red Chilli Powder
Storing it
Keep the pack closed in a cool, dry cupboard away from the stove and sunlight. Always use a dry spoon, and move the powder to an airtight jar once opened if you cook with it less than once a week.
Shop the spices
Karnataka’s favourite one-pot rice, made easy
Spiced, tangy, roasted
Related guides
RecipeBisi Bele Bath
Karnataka’s hot lentil rice with vegetables, tamarind and a ghee-cashew tadka.
Sambar Powder: What It Is and How to Use It
The roasted spice blend behind a thick, tangy Karnataka-style sambar — and how much to add for the perfect pot.
Rasam Powder: The Peppery Heart of Rasam
A thin, peppery soup needs a thin, peppery powder. Here’s how rasam powder works and how to get the froth right.