Spiced Bitter Gourd Masala Sabzi Recipe

Karela Masala Sabzi (Bitter Gourd Masala Sabzi) Recipe

Description
Karela Masala Sabzi is a simple yet delicious dish made from bitter gourd, a highly nutritious vegetable that is popular in Bengali cuisine. This flavorful, healthy recipe combines bitter gourd with aromatic spices, making it a perfect accompaniment for a wholesome lunch.

Cuisine: Bengali
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 Karela (Bitter Gourd/Pavakkai), cut into thin wedges, seeds removed
• 1 Onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves Garlic, grated
• 1-inch Ginger, grated
• 2 Tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Haldi)
• 1 teaspoon Amchur (Dry Mango Powder)
• 1 teaspoon Garam Masala Powder
• 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder (Dhania)
• Salt, to taste
• Red Chilli Powder, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Jaggery or Sugar
• Oil, for cooking

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Instructions

1. Cook the Karela:

   • Begin by cooking the karela in a pressure cooker. You can also steam it if preferred.
   • Place the karela in the pressure cooker with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Add a pinch of salt and a dash of turmeric powder. Stir well.
   • Cover and cook the karela until you hear one whistle. Turn off the heat and immediately release the pressure by placing the cooker under cold running water.

2. Prepare the Masala:

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan.
   • Add the sliced onions, grated ginger, and garlic. Sauté on medium heat until the onions turn soft and the raw smell of the ginger and garlic disappears.

3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

   • Add the finely chopped or pureed tomatoes to the pan along with the turmeric powder, amchur powder, garam masala, coriander powder, salt, and red chilli powder.
   • Stir-fry the masala mixture until the tomatoes are partially cooked.

4. Combine the Karela and Masala:

   • Add the cooked karela to the masala mixture, adjusting the salt and spice levels to your taste.
   • Stir to coat the karela well with the masala, cover the pan, and lower the heat. Let it cook for 10 minutes until the karela is soft and well-coated with the spices.

5. Finish and Serve:

   • Once done, add some chopped coriander leaves for garnish. Turn off the heat.
   • Transfer the Karela Masala Sabzi to a serving bowl.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Karela Masala Sabzi along with Panchmel Dal, Palak Raita, and Phulka for a complete and satisfying meal.

Enjoy this healthy, flavorful dish as part of your daily lunch!