Bharwa Karela | Stuffed Bitter Gourd
Ingredients:
- 4 medium bitter gourd (karela)
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp amchur powder (dry mango powder)
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup besan (gram flour)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Rinse the bitter gourd and pat dry with a clean towel. Cut off the stem end and slice each bitter gourd lengthwise into two halves.
- Scoop out the seeds and pulp from each half with a spoon and discard.
- In a small bowl, mix together the besan, red chili powder, coriander powder, amchur powder, turmeric powder and salt. Add water and mix to make a thick paste.
- Stuff this mixture into the bitter gourd halves and keep aside.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to crackle, add the stuffed bitter gourd and stir gently.
- Cover the pan and cook on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bitter gourd is tender and the stuffing is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or roti.
Note: If you find that the karela is sticking to the pan, you can add a little more oil.
Bharwa Karela is ready to be served.
Let me know in the comment box if you have any questions or suggestions.
Bharwa Karela Nutrition information
Macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 7.1g
- Protein: 2.2g
- Fat: 6.3g
Micronutrients:
- Sodium: 213mg
- Potassium: 247mg
- Fiber: 2.4g
- Vitamin C: 30.9mg
- Iron: 1mg
Health benefits of Bharwa Karela
⇒ Lowers blood sugar levels: Bitter gourd is known to have hypoglycemic properties, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels and may be beneficial for people with diabetes.
⇒ Boosts immunity: Bitter gourd is rich in antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
⇒ Promotes digestion: Bitter gourd is a good source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health and prevent constipation.
⇒ Supports weight loss: Bitter gourd is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help promote weight loss and prevent overeating.
⇒ Reduces inflammation: Bitter gourd contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common factor in many chronic diseases.
⇒ Supports liver health: Bitter gourd may help protect the liver and promote its health by reducing inflammation and increasing antioxidant levels.
⇒ Improves skin health: Bitter gourd is rich in vitamin C and other nutrients that can help improve skin health by promoting collagen production and reducing inflammation.