Bisibelebath Vegan Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Bisibelebath is a comforting, wholesome one-pot dish from South India that brings together lentils, rice, tamarind, and a medley of spices and vegetables. This vegan version of bisibelebath is not just healthy and nourishing but also packed with vibrant flavors that warm your soul.

Whether you’re looking for a fulfilling lunch, a quick dinner, or a dish to impress your guests with authentic Indian cuisine, bisibelebath is an excellent choice.

Made traditionally with toor dal and tamarind, this recipe is perfect for those who want a gluten-free, vegan, and protein-rich meal. The harmonious blend of spices and the subtle tanginess from tamarind make every spoonful a delightful experience.

If you love exploring Indian recipes or are simply on the lookout for a nutritious vegan meal, this bisibelebath recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bisibelebath vegan recipe is a celebration of flavors and nutrition. It is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

The dish combines protein-rich lentils with fiber-filled vegetables and aromatic spices, bringing a perfect balance to your plate.

One pot simplicity makes it a practical choice for busy weekdays without compromising on taste. The tangy tamarind and the tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves add layers of flavor that are both traditional and irresistible.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with simple sides or can be enjoyed on its own.

Whether you are a seasoned South Indian food lover or venturing into vegan cooking, this bisibelebath recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to seasonal veggies, making it a versatile favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
  • 1 cup rice (preferably sona masoori or basmati)
  • 1/2 cup tamarind pulp
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 small potato, diced
  • 1/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 dried red chilies
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
  • 1 tbsp bisibelebath powder (South Indian spice mix)
  • 2 tbsp oil (coconut oil or vegetable oil)
  • 10-12 curry leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 cups water (for cooking dal and rice)
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Pressure cooker or large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Frying pan for tempering
  • Mixing spoon
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowl

Instructions

  1. Wash the toor dal and rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Soak them together for about 20 minutes to reduce cooking time.
  2. In a pressure cooker, add the soaked toor dal, rice, diced carrots, green beans, peas, potato, chopped tomato, and 4 cups water. Add a pinch of turmeric and salt. Close the lid and cook for 3-4 whistles on medium heat, or until both dal and rice are soft and cooked through.
  3. Meanwhile, soak the tamarind in 1/2 cup warm water for 10 minutes. Extract the pulp by squeezing the tamarind and straining the juice through a sieve. Set aside.
  4. Once the pressure releases naturally, open the cooker and mash the contents gently to combine the dal, rice, and vegetables into a slightly mushy consistency.
  5. Add the tamarind pulp and bisibelebath powder to the cooked mixture. Stir well and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Adjust salt as needed.
  6. For tempering (tadka), heat oil in a small frying pan. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Then add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour the tempering over the bisibelebath and mix well. Turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, roast the toor dal lightly before cooking. You can also add a pinch of jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) to balance the tanginess of tamarind.”

  • Feel free to use other vegetables like pumpkin, bottle gourd, or brinjal for variation.
  • If bisibelebath powder is unavailable, you can make your own blend with coriander seeds, chana dal, dried red chilies, fenugreek seeds, and mustard seeds.
  • For a quicker version, use pre-cooked lentils or canned lentils but reduce cooking time accordingly.
  • Adjust the quantity of tamarind pulp to control the sourness level as per your preference.
  • Adding a squeeze of lemon just before serving can enhance the freshness even more.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Quantity per Serving
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 12 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Fat 5 g
Sodium 450 mg

Serving Suggestions

Bisibelebath is traditionally served hot with a side of crispy Cheese Penny Recipe or crunchy papadums. You can also enjoy it with a dollop of vegan yogurt or pickle for an extra burst of flavor.

Pair it with a light salad or sautéed greens to balance the meal. It makes a fulfilling lunch or dinner and works wonderfully as a meal prep option.

If you’re craving something sweet after, check out the delightful Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a vegan-friendly dessert.

Conclusion

Bisibelebath vegan recipe is a perfect marriage of taste and nutrition that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Its rich blend of lentils, rice, tamarind, and spices makes it a wholesome meal that caters to vegan and gluten-free diets effortlessly.

This dish not only fills your stomach but also provides a comforting experience reminiscent of South Indian home cooking. Experiment with different vegetables and spice levels to make it your own.

Don’t forget to try other flavorful recipes like Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a creamy twist on pasta.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the warmth bisibelebath brings to your table, making every meal memorable and nutritious!

📖 Recipe Card: Bisibelebath Vegan Recipe

Description: A traditional South Indian one-pot dish made with lentils, rice, and tamarind, flavored with spices and vegetables. This vegan version is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
  • 1/2 cup rice
  • 1/2 cup tamarind pulp
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas)
  • 2 tablespoons bisibelebath powder
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 dried red chilies
  • 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 10 curry leaves
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and soak toor dal and rice for 15 minutes.
  2. Cook dal and rice together until soft.
  3. Boil mixed vegetables separately until tender.
  4. Heat oil, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida.
  5. Add bisibelebath powder and tamarind pulp, cook for 5 minutes.
  6. Combine cooked dal-rice mixture and vegetables with the tamarind-spice mix.
  7. Add salt and simmer for 10 minutes until flavors blend.
  8. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh coriander.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 60 g

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Marta K

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