How to Make Indian Stuffed Gourd (Karela)
Indian stuffed gourd, commonly known as Karela, is a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the unique flavors of Indian cuisine. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a myriad of health benefits, as karela (bitter gourd) is known for its low calorie content and high nutritional value. In this article, we'll explore how to make Indian stuffed gourd in a simple and effective way.
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized bitter gourds (karela)
- 1 cup of besan (gram flour)
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Bitter Gourd
Start by washing the bitter gourds thoroughly under running water. Cut off the tops and tails of each gourd, and then make a vertical slit from top to bottom, being careful not to cut them completely in half.
To reduce the bitterness, sprinkle some salt inside the slits of the gourds and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture and bitterness. After 30 minutes, rinse the gourds with water and pat them dry.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, add besan (gram flour), cumin seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well until all the spices are evenly combined. You can also add finely chopped onions or grated coconut for added flavor, if desired.
Step 3: Stuff the Gourds
Carefully fill each karela with the prepared stuffing mixture. Make sure to pack it tightly to ensure that the stuffing doesn’t fall out while cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Gourd
In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the stuffed bitter gourds gently in the pan. Cook on medium heat, turning occasionally, until the gourds are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
For even cooking, you can cover the pan and let the gourds cook in their own steam for a few minutes, then uncover and continue to brown them.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the stuffed gourds are cooked, remove them from the heat and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness. Serve hot with roti, paratha, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Karela
- Choosing the right bitter gourds is key: look for dark green ones that are firm to the touch.
- Adjust the level of spices according to your taste preferences.
- Adding a pinch of sugar to the stuffing can help balance the bitterness of the gourd.
In conclusion, making Indian stuffed gourd (karela) is a straightforward process that can be easily done at home. This dish not only offers incredible flavors but also packs a nutritional punch. Enjoy experimenting with this classic Indian recipe!