The numerous variations of rice in India are no less than mindboggling and indescribably tasty too. From dependable curd rice to dal rice and rajma chawal, the variety is endless. One such lesser-known variety but a popular one in Bihari households is Tisi Bhaat or Flaxseed Rice made with powdered flaxseeds offering a nutty flavour.
Sharing about her childhood favourite food, an Indian content creator Shivangi Dubey shared the recipe. “Alsi/Tisi Bhaat aka Flaxseed Rice. A traditional Bihari food that I grew up eating and absolutely love,” she shared.
Before we dive into the recipe, here’s what makes flaxseeds a must-have in your diet.
Flaxseed provides high fibre, and protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, said dietitian Simrat Bhui.
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that are known for their heart-protective properties, supporting cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation, said Sushma PS, chief dietician, Jindal Naturecure Institute.
Flaxseeds also contain essential nutrients such as vitamin B1, copper, phosphorus, and selenium. These nutrients play a role in maintaining overall health, supporting energy production, and contributing to the body’s antioxidant defense, mentioned Sushma.
Combine your plain rice with flaxseeds (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Notably, flaxseed contains two types of fibre – both soluble and insoluble. “Foods rich in fibre improves gut health and bowel regularity,” said Bhui.
This aids in promoting healthy digestion, preventing constipation, and supporting a well-functioning gut.
What makes the combination a powerful one for your health?
Grounded flaxseed when combined with rice or with wheat increases the fibre content of the food and provides additional benefits, Bhui mentioned. “Traditional Bihari flaxseed rice is also an example of how to combine superfood to staple food to increase its nutrient content,” said Bhui.
The inclusion of spices like coriander and cumin seeds brings antioxidants to the dish. “These compounds help combat oxidative stress in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases,” said Sushma.
Here’s the recipe from Dubey
Ingredients
Flaxseeds or alsi
Spices – Cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds
Bay leaf
Dry Red Chillies
Curry leaves
Mustard oil
Cooked rice
Pickle oil
Onion, chopped
Method
*Dry roast alsi with jeera (cumin seeds), dhaniya (coriander seeds), saunf (fennel seeds), dry red chilli and bay leaf. Let it cool down for some time.
*Grind it to a powder-like consistency. “I like it slightly coarse,” said Dubey.
*Shallow-fry dry red chillies in mustard oil and let them cool down.
*Take a plate or bowl and crush the dry red chilli. “Add salt, pickle oil, onion and mix well. Now add rice and teesi powder and mix well,” said Dubey.
*The dish is ready.