Karela Recipe | Bitter Gourd Curry Recipe
Karela Recipe: Growing up, I remember my mother working her magic in the kitchen, whipping up extraordinary dishes that brought our family together at the dining table. One dish that stands out is her Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry). It was her secret weapon to make us eat this healthy yet acquired-taste vegetable. The unique aroma wafting through the house, the intriguing bitter flavor, and the tender texture of the karela would leave us craving more. Today, as a food critic and passionate cook, I love recreating this recipe and exploring new ways to enjoy this underrated vegetable.
What is Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry)?
Karela Recipe, also known as Bitter Gourd Curry, is a traditional Indian dish made from the unique bitter gourd vegetable. Known for its distinct bitter taste and rich nutritional profile, this dish brings out the best in karela through an aromatic blend of spices, tangy tamarind, and sweet jaggery, creating a perfect balance of flavors. When cooked to perfection, the karela becomes tender and delicious, leaving you with a memorable culinary experience.
Variations
There are numerous regional variations of Karela Recipe throughout India, each with its own unique blend of spices and ingredients. Some popular variations include:
- Bharwa Karela: A North Indian version where the bitter gourds are stuffed with a spiced onion mixture and cooked in a tangy tomato-based gravy.
- Karela Fry: A simple yet delicious dish where the karela is sliced, marinated with spices, and pan-fried until golden and crisp.
- Karela Sabzi: A dry version where the karela is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and mildly bitter side dish.
Nutrition benefits
Bitter gourd is a powerhouse of nutrition. It is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, making it an excellent choice for weight management. It’s also a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron, potassium, and calcium. Karela is well-known for its blood sugar-lowering properties, making it beneficial for people with diabetes.
Step by Step Karela Recipe | Bitter Gourd Curry Recipe
Karela Recipe | Bitter Gourd Curry Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 grams karela / Bitter Gourd bitter gourd
- 1 Onions thinly sliced
- 2 Tomato finely chopped
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp Cumin (Jeera)
- 1 tsp mustard seeds / rai
- Salt to taste
- 3 tbsp oil
Instructions
Pre-Cooking prep steps
- Wash the karela thoroughly and pat dry. Slice off the ends and scrape off any rough skin. Cut into thin round slices or small cubes, depending on your preference. Soak the karela in salted water for 30 minutes to reduce the bitterness. Drain, rinse with fresh water, and set aside.
- Soak the tamarind in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Extract the pulp and discard the seeds and fibers. Set aside.
- Slice the onions and chop the tomatoes, keeping them separate. Set aside.
Cooking steps
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, allowing them to crackle.
- Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil separates from the masala.
- Add the prepared karela to the pan and mix well, ensuring the masala coats the karela evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the tamarind pulp and salt. Mix well and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the karela is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust the seasoning, if necessary, and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
Notes & Tips
- To further reduce the bitterness of the karela, you can apply some salt and turmeric powder to the slices and let them sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing them with water.
- For a slightly different flavor, you can also add some grated coconut or ground peanuts to the curry.
- Serve the Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry) hot with roti, paratha, or steamed rice for a wholesome and nutritious meal.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Karela Recipe
How can I reduce the bitterness of karela (bitter gourd)?
To reduce the bitterness, you can slice the karela and sprinkle salt and turmeric powder on the slices. Allow them to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing them thoroughly with water. This process helps draw out some of the bitterness, making the karela more palatable.
What are the health benefits of eating karela (bitter gourd)?
Karela is known for its various health benefits, including aiding in blood sugar control, boosting immunity, and improving digestion. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as several essential minerals.
Can I add other vegetables to the Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry)?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like potatoes, onions, or tomatoes to enhance the flavor and add variety to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it necessary to use tamarind pulp in this recipe?
Tamarind pulp adds a tangy flavor to the dish, which complements the bitterness of the karela. However, if you don’t have tamarind pulp, you can substitute it with lemon juice or amchur (dried mango powder).
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make the Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry) vegan, simply replace ghee with a plant-based oil like coconut oil or vegetable oil.
How should I serve Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry)?
Serve the karela curry hot with roti, paratha, or steamed rice for a wholesome and delicious meal. You can also pair it with a side of yogurt or raita to balance the flavors.
How can I store leftover Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry)?
You can store leftover karela curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, if you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of green chilies and red chili powder used in the recipe. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.
Are there any variations to this Karela Recipe (Bitter Gourd Curry)?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors by adding grated coconut or ground peanuts to the curry. Additionally, you can try using different spices or herbs to create a unique taste that suits your palate.
———————————————————————————————————
Foodcazt (www.foodcazt.com) is a Food Magazine. We help you discover food. Benefit from our Recipes, Reviews, Food Guides & Articles. We uncover trends, especially for Indian and Asian Cuisines. Please follow us to learn more. Uncover recipes. Learn about trends. Unearth unique restaurants. Find what moves you. Discover what inspires others. We uncover trends, especially for Indian Cuisine and Asian Cuisine.
It would mean the world to use if you follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.
