Creating a fusion dish like “Jowar and Bajra Bisi Bele Bath” involves blending the traditional flavors of Karnataka’s beloved Bisi Bele Bath with the wholesome goodness of jowar (sorghum) and bajra (pearl millet). This dish promises a nutritious and satisfying meal with a unique twist. Here’s how you can prepare it:

Jowar and Bajra Bisi Bele Bath: A Nutritious Fusion Dish

Ingredients:

For Bisi Bele Bath Masala:

• 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds
• 1 cinnamon stick (about 2 inches)
• 4-5 cloves
• 2-3 dry red chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon oil

For Bisi Bele Bath:

• 1/2 cup jowar (sorghum), rinsed and soaked for 2-3 hours
• 1/2 cup bajra (pearl millet), rinsed and soaked for 2-3 hours
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, etc.), chopped
• 1/2 cup tamarind pulp (extracted from lemon-sized tamarind soaked in warm water)
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 10-12 curry leaves
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

For Serving:

• Fresh yogurt (optional)
• Papadums or chips (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Bisi Bele Bath Masala

1. Dry Roast Spices: Heat a pan over medium heat and dry roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, fenugreek seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and dry red chilies until fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
2. Add Coconut: Add grated coconut to the roasted spices and roast for another 1-2 minutes until coconut turns golden brown. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Grind to a Paste: Once cooled, grind the roasted spices and coconut mixture into a fine paste using a blender or food processor. Add water as needed to make a smooth paste. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook Jowar and Bajra

1. Rinse and Soak Grains: Rinse jowar and bajra separately under running water. Soak them in enough water for 2-3 hours.
2. Pressure Cook Grains: Drain the soaked jowar and bajra. In a pressure cooker, add soaked jowar, bajra, mixed vegetables, tamarind pulp, and salt to taste. Add enough water (approximately 4 cups) to cover the grains and vegetables. Pressure cook for 4-5 whistles or until the grains are cooked and soft.
3. Mash Grains: Once cooked, mash the jowar, bajra, and vegetables lightly using the back of a ladle. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Bisi Bele Bath

1. Temper Ingredients: Heat ghee or oil in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds, asafoetida (hing), curry leaves, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.
2. Add Onions and Tomatoes: Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy.
3. Add Masala Paste: Add the prepared Bisi Bele Bath masala paste to the pan. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell of the masala paste disappears and oil starts to separate from the sides.
4. Combine with Cooked Grains: Add the mashed jowar, bajra, and vegetable mixture to the pan. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer: Add water if needed to adjust the consistency to your preference. Bring the Bisi Bele Bath to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Serve Jowar and Bajra Bisi Bele Bath

1. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve Hot: Serve Jowar and Bajra Bisi Bele Bath hot with a dollop of fresh yogurt and papadums or chips on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Jowar and Bajra Bisi Bele Bath:

• Grain Consistency: Ensure jowar and bajra are cooked well but still retain their shape. Adjust water while pressure cooking to achieve the desired consistency.
• Masala Paste: The freshly ground masala paste adds depth of flavor to the dish. Roast the spices well to enhance their aroma before grinding.
• Vegetables: Feel free to customize the choice of vegetables based on your preference and seasonal availability.
• Storage: Jowar and Bajra Bisi Bele Bath can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.

Enjoy the Nutritious Fusion Dish!

Jowar and Bajra Bisi Bele Bath combines the nutritional benefits of millets with the comforting flavors of Bisi Bele Bath. This wholesome dish is not only nutritious but also a delightful addition to any mealtime. Embrace the fusion of flavors and textures in this traditional yet innovative recipe!