Masala Bharwa Karela: A Flavorful Stuffed Bitter Gourd Delight

Introduction:

Masala Bharwa Karela, or stuffed bitter gourd, is a classic Indian dish that turns the often overlooked and disliked bitter gourd (karela) into a flavorful delicacy. Known for its distinct bitterness, karela is packed with health benefits, including aiding in digestion and regulating blood sugar levels. This recipe balances the bitterness with a rich and spicy stuffing, making it a favorite even among those who typically avoid karela.

The stuffing is usually made with a combination of spices, onions, and sometimes ground nuts or gram flour (besan), which adds a delightful texture and flavor. The stuffed karela is then slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This dish pairs well with chapati, paratha, or even plain steamed rice, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

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Ingredients:

6-8 medium-sized karela (bitter gourd)

2 tablespoons salt (for removing bitterness)

2 tablespoons oil

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)

1 tablespoon coriander powder

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)

1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder

1 tablespoon fennel seeds, coarsely ground

Salt to taste

1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Karela:

Wash the karelas thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Using a knife, carefully scrape off the rough outer surface of the karela. Do not discard the scrapings; keep them aside.

Make a slit along the length of each karela, ensuring you don't cut all the way through. Gently scoop out the seeds using a small spoon or your fingers.

Rub the karelas with 2 tablespoons of salt, both inside and outside, to help reduce their bitterness. Let them rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Afterward, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry.

2. Preparing the Masala (Stuffing):

In a pan, dry roast the gram flour (besan) on low heat until it turns golden and releases a nutty aroma. Set it aside.

In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.

Add the scraped karela skin (kept aside earlier) and cook for a few minutes until softened.

Now, add coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and the roasted gram flour. Mix well.

Add amchur powder, garam masala powder, and coarsely ground fennel seeds. Stir everything together and cook the mixture until the spices are well blended and the raw smell disappears.

Adjust the salt to taste and add lemon juice. Mix well and turn off the heat. Let the stuffing cool down slightly.

3. Stuffing the Karela:

Take the prepared karelas and fill each one generously with the masala stuffing. Press the stuffing firmly so that it stays inside the karela.

If there is any leftover stuffing, keep it aside for later use.

4. Cooking the Bharwa Karela:

In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai, heat a little oil on medium heat.

Place the stuffed karelas in the pan in a single layer. If you have leftover stuffing, you can sprinkle it over the karelas.

Cover the pan with a lid and cook the karelas on low to medium heat. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

Continue cooking until the karelas are tender and have developed a golden brown color, which should take about 20-30 minutes.

5. Garnishing and Serving:

Once the karelas are cooked, remove them from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serve Masala Bharwa Karela hot with chapati, paratha, or steamed rice. It also pairs well with dal and a side of yogurt.

Conclusion:

Masala Bharwa Karela is a dish that transforms the humble and often underappreciated bitter gourd into a mouthwatering delicacy. The spicy and tangy stuffing balances the natural bitterness of the karela, creating a dish that's both flavorful and nutritious. Whether you're a fan of karela or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to win you over with its unique taste and health benefits. Perfect for a family meal or a special occasion, Masala Bharwa Karela brings a burst of flavor to your dining table, proving that karela can be as delicious as it is healthy.