Bihari Karela and Potato Vegetable Recipe
Bihari Karela Aur Aloo Ki Sabzi
A traditional dish from Bihar, Bihari Karela and Aloo Ki Subzi is a delightful and flavorful vegetable combination that is perfect for a side dish. With its unique blend of spices and the slightly bitter taste of karela (bitter gourd), this dish is both delicious and healthy, particularly for those managing their sugar levels as it is diabetic-friendly.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bitter Gourd (Karela) | 4 pieces |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 2, chopped |
| Onions | 3, chopped |
| Panch Phoran Masala (Five Spice Mix) | 2 teaspoons |
| Mustard Oil | As required |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
65 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Cuisine:
Bihari (Indian)
Course:
Side Dish
Diet:
Diabetic Friendly
Instructions:
-
Prep the Karela (Bitter Gourd):
Begin by slicing the bitter gourd into thin rounds. After slicing, add a teaspoon of mustard oil and mix well. Set the karela aside for 30 minutes to allow the bitterness to release. After 30 minutes, press down on the karela slices to extract as much water as possible. This will help reduce the bitterness. -
Cook the Karela:
Heat some mustard oil in a frying pan. Once the oil is hot, add the karela slices and sauté them for 7 to 8 minutes, allowing them to cook until they are tender but still slightly crispy. Once done, remove the karela from the pan and set it aside. -
Cook the Potatoes:
In the same pan, add the chopped potatoes and cook them for about 5 minutes until they are half-cooked. Remove the potatoes from the pan and set them aside as well. -
Prepare the Spice Mix:
In another pan, heat a bit more mustard oil. Add the panch phoran masala (five-spice mix) and chopped onions. Sauté the onions until they are soft and golden brown. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Add the salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, sautéed karela, and half-cooked potatoes into the pan. Mix everything thoroughly. Cook on low to medium heat until the potatoes and karela are fully cooked and tender, allowing the spices to blend well. -
Final Touch:
Once everything is cooked and well-mixed, take the vegetable off the heat. Serve it hot in a bowl.
Serving Suggestions:
Bihari Karela and Aloo Ki Subzi is best enjoyed with panchmel dal (a mixed dal) and phulka (Indian flatbread). This combination makes for a complete, nutritious meal, full of rich flavors that balance the bitterness of the karela with the subtle taste of potatoes.
Tips:
- If you prefer a slightly less bitter taste, you can sprinkle some salt on the sliced karela before setting it aside for 30 minutes. This will help draw out more bitterness.
- Adjust the amount of red chili powder depending on your heat preference.
This dish is not only a staple in Bihari cuisine but also a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal. Enjoy this hearty vegetable dish and savor the true taste of Bihar with every bite!
