Bisi bele bhath is a rice-based dish originated from South Indian state of Karnataka. I always prefer using home made bisi bele bhath powder rather than store bought powder. I like its fresh aroma to the dish. This is an easy to make powder and also it consumes less time.

Ingredients:

• 4 tsp – Coriander seeds
• 2 tsp – Cumin seeds
• 2 tsp – Bengal gram / kadalai paruppu
• 1/2 tsp – Fenugreek seeds
• 5 to 7 nos – Dry red chillies
• 6 nos – cloves
• 2 small piece – Cinnamon
• 2 nos – Cardamom
• 2 tsp – Dry coconut grated (optional)

Preparation method:

1. Heat a pan, add bengal gram and fry for 2 mins. Then add coriander seeds,cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom and fry till there is a slight change in color.
2. Next add dry red chillies and fry for 2 mins. Keep frying these mixtures until golden brown. Remove from the stove and then add dry coconut grated, keep frying for few seconds. Allow them to cool.
3. Once all the fried ingredients are cooled, transfer them to a mixer jar and grind them to a fine powder. Store it in a airtight container and use 2 tsp or more while making bisi bele bhath.

Notes:

• Dry coconut is completely optional. Most of the time I prepare bisi bele bhath powder without using dry coconut.
• I use to store this powder in a refrigerator rather than outside. I feel the powder would be fresh if it is stored in a refrigerator.
• I always make bisi bele bhath powder in a small batches like 3 or 4 times use only.
• You can increase or decrease the number of dry red chillies as per your spice level.