Baked Bitter Gourd Bhajji Recipe
Description:
Baked Bitter Gourd Bhajji is a delicious and healthy snack where bitter gourd (karela) is sliced and mixed with a spicy batter. Instead of deep-frying, this bhajji is baked to create a crunchy, flavorful treat. Perfect for an evening snack or to pack in your snack box. This recipe is diabetic-friendly and offers a nutritious alternative to traditional fried snacks.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Diabetic Friendly
Ingredients:
- 3 Bitter Gourd (karela), peeled, seeds removed, and sliced
- 1/2 cup Chickpea Flour (besan)
- 2 tbsp Rice Flour
- 10-12 Curry Leaves, torn
- 1 tsp Red Chili Powder
- 1/2 tsp Asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 tbsp Oil, for greasing
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bitter Gourd: Start by peeling the bitter gourd and slicing it into thin pieces. If the seeds are large, remove them. Sprinkle a little salt over the sliced bitter gourd and set aside for 15-20 minutes to release some bitterness.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour (besan), rice flour, curry leaves, red chili powder, asafoetida, turmeric powder, and salt. Add a little water to form a thick batter. Ensure it has a consistency that will coat the bitter gourd slices well.
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Coat the Bitter Gourd: After the bitter gourd has released some of its bitterness, rinse and pat it dry. Dip each piece into the prepared batter and coat it thoroughly.
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Bake the Bhajji: Place the coated bitter gourd pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the bhajjis turn golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Remove the baked bhajji from the oven and serve hot with coriander-mint chutney and a cup of masala chai for a perfect snack!
Enjoy your healthy, crunchy Baked Bitter Gourd Bhajji!
