Bharwa Karela (Stuffed Bitter Gourd) Recipe
Bharwa Karela, or Stuffed Bitter Gourd, is a beloved dish from North India known for its vibrant and bold flavors. The bitterness of the gourd is balanced with a zesty, tangy filling made from spices and mango pickle, offering a delightful combination of tastes and textures. This vegetarian recipe is ideal for an authentic Indian dinner, especially when paired with Punjabi Dal Tadka and Boondi Raita for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Karela (Bitter Gourd/Pavakkai) | 5 pieces |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mango Pickle | 1 teaspoon |
| Cotton Threads (to tie the karelas) | As needed |
| Sunflower Oil (for deep frying) | Enough for frying |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Cuisine:
North Indian
Course:
Dinner
Diet:
Vegetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Karela (Bitter Gourd)
Start by peeling the karelas with a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, rinse the karelas under cold water, then sprinkle with salt and turmeric powder. Set them aside for 15-20 minutes to allow the salt and turmeric to help reduce the bitterness.
Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Filling
While the karelas are resting, it’s time to prepare the flavorful filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, cumin seeds, coriander powder, mango pickle, finely chopped onion, and salt. Stir everything together until well-mixed. The mango pickle will add a tangy, spicy kick to the filling, complementing the bitterness of the karela.
Step 3: Stuff the Karelas
After the karelas have rested, gently squeeze out any excess water from them. Using a sharp knife, make a vertical slit along the length of each karela, taking care not to cut all the way through. Stuff each karela with the prepared spice mixture, packing it in as tightly as possible.
Step 4: Secure the Stuffed Karelas
Once the karelas are stuffed, use a piece of cotton thread to tie them securely, ensuring that the slit remains closed. This helps the filling stay intact while frying.
Step 5: Fry the Bharwa Karelas
Heat sunflower oil in a deep frying pan (kadhai) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully drop the stuffed karelas into the oil, one at a time. Fry the karelas, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This process should take about 20-25 minutes.
Step 6: Drain the Excess Oil
Once the karelas are fried to perfection, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Carefully remove the cotton threads from each stuffed karela.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Bharwa Karela hot, alongside a bowl of Punjabi Dal Tadka and a refreshing serving of Boondi Raita for a well-rounded North Indian meal. The combination of crispy bitter gourd with tangy-spicy filling, paired with lentils and yogurt, creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Tips for a Perfect Bharwa Karela:
- Reducing Bitterness: To ensure the karela is not too bitter, the key is to let them rest with the salt and turmeric. This process draws out some of the bitterness and makes them more palatable.
- Choosing the Right Karela: Select medium-sized karelas that are tender but not too young. Avoid overly mature karelas with large seeds, as they tend to be more bitter.
- Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of red chilli powder or opt for a less spicy mango pickle.
- Variations: You can add other ingredients to the stuffing, such as roasted peanuts or grated coconut, to add texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on portion sizes and ingredients used.)
Bharwa Karela is a traditional dish that combines the distinct taste of bitter gourd with aromatic Indian spices. Whether you’re a fan of bold, savory dishes or looking to try something new, this stuffed bitter gourd recipe will undoubtedly become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Pair it with warm, soft roti or steamed rice for a comforting, flavorful dinner that your family will love!
