Bitter Gourd Chips Recipe: A Crispy Indian Snack
Embrace the unique flavors of Indian cuisine with these delightful Bitter Gourd Chips, a perfect snack that marries health and crunch in every bite. Made from the often underestimated bitter gourd, this recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a crispy delight that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bitter Gourd | 1 large |
| Rice Flour | 1 cup |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 1 tablespoon |
| Corn Flour | 3/4 tablespoon |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Crushed Fennel | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Raw Mango (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 5g |
Preparation Steps
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Preparation of Bitter Gourd:
Begin by washing the bitter gourd thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat it dry with a kitchen towel. Carefully slice off the ends and discard them. Now, cut the bitter gourd into thin, round slices, aiming for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. -
-
Mixing the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced bitter gourd with rice flour, gram flour, corn flour, coriander powder, cumin powder, crushed fennel, and raw mango (if using). Add red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Mix the dry ingredients well. Gradually add a little water to create a thick, coating batter that clings to the bitter gourd slices. -
Heating the Oil:
In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, heat sufficient oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of the batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it is ready for frying. -
Frying the Chips:
Carefully place the coated bitter gourd slices into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chips. Fry the slices until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to turn them as needed. -
Draining Excess Oil:
Once cooked, remove the bitter gourd chips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch. -
Serving:
Serve the hot and crispy bitter gourd chips as a delightful evening snack alongside ginger tea, masala chai, or filtered coffee. These chips also make a great appetizer for gatherings, showcasing the unique flavors of Indian cuisine.
Conclusion
Enjoy these Bitter Gourd Chips as a healthy and satisfying snack that not only pleases the palate but also provides the health benefits associated with this incredible vegetable. The combination of spices and flours creates a delightful crunch that is hard to resist, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Perfect for any occasion, these chips are sure to impress your family and friends alike!
