Classic Pavakkai Varuval – Bitter Gourd Stir Fry Recipe
Description:
Bitter Gourd, known as Pavakkai in Tamil, is a vegetable often overlooked due to its bitter taste. However, this humble vegetable is loaded with nutrition, making it a powerhouse for your health. Bitter Gourd is low in sodium, which helps in lowering cholesterol levels. It also promotes digestion and is an excellent choice for diabetics. Despite its bitterness, Pavakkai Varuval is a deliciously crispy and flavorful stir fry, perfect for any South Indian meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Karela (Bitter Gourd/ Pavakkai) | 250 grams, cut into roundels |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Green Chilli | 1, finely chopped |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sambar Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 2-3
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Karela (Bitter Gourd):
Start by cutting the bitter gourd into thin roundels. Set aside. You can sprinkle a little salt over the sliced gourd and let it rest for about 10 minutes to reduce bitterness. Then rinse off the salt to remove excess bitterness, although this step is optional. -
Tempering the Spices:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter, releasing their fragrance into the oil. -
Cooking the Bitter Gourd:
Add the sliced bitter gourd to the pan along with the turmeric powder. Mix well to ensure the turmeric coats the slices. Add salt to taste. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the bitter gourd to cook in its own juices for about 10 minutes on low heat. This step helps to soften the gourd and reduces its bitterness. -
Adding the Seasonings:
After the bitter gourd has cooked and softened, add the finely chopped onion and green chilli to the pan. Stir well to combine. Next, sprinkle in the sambar powder and give the mixture a good mix to incorporate the spices evenly. -
Crisping the Bitter Gourd:
Now, cook the Pavakkai Varuval uncovered on low flame for another 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the bitter gourd crisps up evenly. This will give the dish its signature crunchy texture. -
Final Taste Check:
Taste the dish and adjust the salt and spices as needed. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more green chillies or sambar powder. -
Serving Suggestions:
Once the bitter gourd is crisp and perfectly cooked, turn off the heat. Serve this delicious Classic Pavakkai Varuval with hot parathas or steamed rice and dal tadka for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16.5 g |
| Fat | 6.5 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 125 mg |
Pro Tip:
If you prefer to reduce the bitterness even further, you can soak the sliced bitter gourd in saltwater for 30 minutes before cooking. After soaking, rinse it off before following the recipe steps. This can help mellow out the flavor while retaining its health benefits.
This Classic Pavakkai Varuval is a great addition to any South Indian meal. It pairs beautifully with chapatis, parathas, or rice, making it a versatile dish suitable for a variety of occasions. Enjoy the crispy, tangy, and spicy stir-fry packed with goodness!
