Karela (Bitter Melon) is a unique spicy side dish. Bitter melon or bitter gourd is popularly known as Karela in India. Karela is the bitterest fruit among all the fruits.
Ingredients
6-8 karelas
1 Tbsp salt
Mix together for the masala:
Salt to taste
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ginger powder
1 Tbsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp chilli powder
1 tsp roasted cumin
1/8 tsp asafoetida
1 tsp fennel seeds-roasted and coarsely pounded
1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds-roasted and coarsely pounded
2 Tbsp mustard oil
Method* Scrape off the rough surface of the bitter gourd; slit length wise on one side, rub all over with 1 tbsp salt and keep aside for about 30 minutes.
* Squeeze the bitter gourd to remove the bitter juice and scoop out the hard seeds, if any.
* Stuff the filling firmly into the bitter gourd. In a pan, heat 2 Tbsp of oil and add the bitter gourd.
* Turn over a few times on high flame.
* Reduce heat and cook covered, till tender, stirring a few times so the vegetables are cooked and browned all round.