“Anna, are you making sambar rice?” Srikanth asked, peeking into the kitchen.

 Ananth smiled, “It’s a surprise. Go sit at the table,” he replied.

I stood at the stove, frying vadiyalu as Ananth instructed, watching the children hover curiously. Their chatter filled the house with its usual cheer.

Soon, Ananth carried a steaming pot to the dining table. The rich aroma of spices, tamarind, and ghee filled air, making us all eager.

The first bite silenced everyone.

 “This is so good!” exclaimed Srijanani.  “It’s like sambar… but not exactly,” added Srikanth.

“This must be bisi bele bath, an authentic dish from Karnataka”, I said softly

“Yes, Pinni.”, Ananth nodded with a smile. “How did you make it so perfectly? It’s delicious,” I asked

He grinned, explaining, “Just two steps. Cook the rice and dal. Boil vegetables of choice and mix with tamarind pulp. That’s it.”

“But this tastes much deeper and delicious. What is that key ingredient?” I asked eagerly. 

That’s when Ananth placed a jar on the table with a smile.

“Bisi Bele Bath Powder. It has all the spices blended just right to make the authentic bisi bele bath”

The children were already having their second servings, while I admired the jar in my hand.