Bihari Bitter Gourd and Potato Sabzi Recipe
Bihari Bitter Gourd and Potato Sabzi, also known as Bihari Karela and Aloo Ki Subzi, is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that perfectly complements an Indian meal. This delightful curry is made with bitter gourd, potatoes, and the aromatic Panch Phoron masala, which gives it a unique and bold taste. The combination of these ingredients results in a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a diabetic-friendly dish or a daily meal option, this Bihari recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it with steamed rice, phulkas, or even dal for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients for Bihari Bitter Gourd and Potato Sabzi:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bitter gourd (Karela) | 4 pieces |
| Potatoes, chopped | 2 medium-sized |
| Onions, chopped | 3 medium-sized |
| Panch Phoron Masala | 2 teaspoons |
| Mustard oil | As required |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bitter Gourd:
Start by thoroughly washing the bitter gourd and slicing it thinly. After chopping, sprinkle a pinch of salt over the slices and mix it in. Let the bitter gourd sit for about 30 minutes. This helps to draw out some of the bitterness. After 30 minutes, press the bitter gourd slices to squeeze out any excess moisture. -
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Cooking the Bitter Gourd:
Heat a generous amount of mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bitter gourd and sauté it for about 7-8 minutes until it softens slightly. Remove it from the pan and set it aside. -
Cooking the Potatoes:
In the same pan, add the chopped potatoes and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, just enough to soften them halfway. Remove the potatoes from the pan and set them aside with the cooked bitter gourd. -
Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add a little more mustard oil, and heat it on medium. Once the oil is hot, add the Panch Phoron masala. Let it sizzle for a few seconds to release its flavors. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté them until they turn soft and golden brown. -
Bringing Everything Together:
Once the onions are cooked, add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt to taste. Stir everything together to combine the spices with the onions. Now, add the cooked bitter gourd and potatoes to the pan. Mix them well, ensuring the spices coat all the ingredients evenly. -
Final Cooking:
Cover the pan and let the mixture cook for 10-15 minutes on low heat until the potatoes and bitter gourd are fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the vegetables are cooked and the flavors have melded together, your Bihari Bitter Gourd and Potato Sabzi is ready. -
Serving:
Transfer the sabzi to a serving bowl and serve hot. This dish goes wonderfully with a bowl of Panchmel Dal (a lentil dish) and phulkas or steamed rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Tips for a Perfect Bihari Karela and Aloo Ki Subzi:
- Bitter Gourd Tip: The longer you let the bitter gourd sit with salt, the more bitterness will be drawn out. This step is key to making the dish less bitter and more enjoyable for everyone.
- Adjust Spice Levels: You can always adjust the quantity of red chilli powder according to your spice preference.
- Mustard Oil: Mustard oil is traditionally used in Bihari cuisine, but if you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable oil.
- Serve with Chapati: This dish pairs beautifully with chapati or phulka, but you can also enjoy it with steamed rice for a fulfilling meal.
Why You’ll Love Bihari Bitter Gourd and Potato Sabzi:
- Healthy and Diabetic-Friendly: This recipe is low in carbohydrates and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for anyone following a diabetic-friendly diet. The addition of bitter gourd is known for its health benefits, including its role in controlling blood sugar levels.
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The use of Panch Phoron masala gives this dish an aromatic and slightly earthy flavor that sets it apart from other vegetable curries. The mustard oil enhances the authenticity of the dish, bringing out the true essence of Bihari cuisine.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this recipe can be whipped up in under an hour. Perfect for a mid-week meal or a side dish for a family dinner.
Nutritional Information (Approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Potassium | 400mg |
Indulge in this delicious, nutritious Bihari Bitter Gourd and Potato Sabzi and enjoy a taste of authentic Bihari flavors right in your home!
