Baked Bitter Gourd Bhajji Recipe: A Delightful Indian Snack
Baked Bitter Gourd Bhajji is a unique and flavorful snack that brings a healthier twist to traditional Indian bhajis. This recipe highlights the distinctive flavor of karela (bitter gourd) while maintaining its nutritional value, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious yet diabetic-friendly treat. With minimal oil and a crispy texture achieved through baking, this dish is not just good for your taste buds but also a delight for your health-conscious friends and family.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bitter gourd (karela) | 3 (with some skin removed) |
| Gram flour (besan) | ½ cup |
| Rice flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Curry leaves | 10-12 leaves, torn |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | ½ teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Oil (for greasing) | 1 tablespoon, warmed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Servings
| Number of Servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Prepare the Bitter Gourd: Begin by peeling the bitter gourd and cutting it into thin slices. If the seeds are large, remove them; if they are small, you may leave them intact. Sprinkle a bit of salt over the sliced bitter gourd and set it aside for 15 to 20 minutes. This will help reduce some of the bitterness and soften the gourd.
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Preheat the Oven: While the bitter gourd is resting, preheat your oven to 200°C (approximately 392°F). This step is crucial to ensure that the bhajis cook evenly and achieve a delightful crispiness.
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Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bhajis from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
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Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, rice flour, torn curry leaves, red chili powder, asafoetida, turmeric powder, salt, and a little water. Stir well to create a thick batter that will coat the bitter gourd slices. The consistency should be such that it clings to the gourd without being too runny.
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Coat the Bitter Gourd: Take the salted bitter gourd slices and dip them into the prepared batter, ensuring they are well-coated. Shake off any excess batter to prevent clumping.
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Bake the Bhajis: Place the coated bitter gourd slices in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overbaking.
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Serve: Once baked, remove the bhajis from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve these crispy baked bitter gourd bhajis hot, accompanied by a tangy coriander-mint chutney and a cup of masala tea for a delightful snack experience.
Enjoying Your Baked Bitter Gourd Bhajji
This baked bitter gourd bhajji recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to enjoy the distinct flavors of karela in a healthier manner. The combination of spices and the crunch from baking make this dish a fantastic snack for any time of the day. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a casual get-together, these bhajis are sure to impress your family and friends. Embrace the joy of cooking with this delightful recipe and make your snacking experience truly special!
