Classic Pavakkai Stir Fry Recipe (Bitter Gourd Fry)
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this Classic Pavakkai Stir Fry, also known as Bitter Gourd Fry, where the earthy bitterness of the gourd meets aromatic spices to create a truly memorable appetizer that is as nutritious as it is flavorful. This vibrant dish is perfect for those who appreciate the unique taste of bitter gourd and want to explore its versatility in a delightful vegetarian dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Bitter gourd | 2 medium-sized, thinly sliced |
| Turmeric powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sambar powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Green chillies | 1-2, finely chopped |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 4g |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 30 minutes |
| Cooking | 15 minutes |
| Total | 30 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | 4 |
Cuisine
| Cuisine | Indian |
|---|
Course
| Course | Appetizer |
Diet
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
To begin making the Classic Pavakkai Stir Fry, start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, allowing them to splutter and release their delightful aroma, which sets the stage for the dish.
Next, incorporate the thinly sliced bitter gourd roundels into the pan. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder and season generously with salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the bitter gourd is well-coated with the spices. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the bitter gourd to cook in its own juices on low heat for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial, as it softens the bitter gourd and mellows its distinctive flavor.
After 10 minutes, remove the lid and check the consistency. The bitter gourd should be tender. Now, it’s time to enhance the flavor profile by adding 1 tablespoon of sambar powder and the finely chopped green chillies. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the spices to meld beautifully.
Continue to cook the bitter gourd on low flame, but this time without the lid, for an additional 15 minutes. This will not only intensify the flavors but also allow the dish to become crisp. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Once the bitter gourd has achieved the desired crispiness, turn off the flame. Your Classic Pavakkai Stir Fry is now ready to be served! This dish pairs wonderfully with warm parathas or a bowl of steamed rice alongside dal tadka, creating a wholesome meal that celebrates the unique flavors of bitter gourd.
Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite, and share this dish with family and friends to introduce them to the wonderful world of Indian cuisine!
Tips for the Best Bitter Gourd Fry
- For a milder taste, soak the sliced bitter gourd in salt water for about 15 minutes before cooking, then rinse and drain.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sambar powder and green chillies to suit your spice preference.
- Pair with a cooling yogurt dip or raita to balance the bitterness of the gourd.
Indulge in the rich heritage of Indian cooking with this Classic Pavakkai Stir Fry, a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a unique culinary experience that celebrates the true essence of vegetarian cuisine. Enjoy!
