Karele ki sabji is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, especially in North India. Despite its Bitter taste, Bitter Gourd is widely used in Indian cooking due to its various health benefits. When cooked with the right blend of spices and flavors, bitter gourd transforms into a delicious and savory dish that is enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

To make karele ki sabji, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized bitter gourds (karela)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Preparation Time

The preparation time for making karele ki sabji is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for making karele ki sabji is around 25-30 minutes.

Step 1: Preparing the Bitter Gourd

• Wash the bitter gourds thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
• Trim off the ends of the bitter gourds and scrape the rough outer skin using a knife or a peeler.
• Cut the bitter gourds lengthwise and remove the seeds and pith using a spoon.
• Slice the bitter gourds into thin rounds or semi-circles.

Step 2: Preparing the Masala

• Heat oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat.
• Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
• Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and sauté for a few seconds.
• Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
• Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
• Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
• Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
• Cook the masala for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil separates from the masala.

Step 3: Cooking the Karele Ki Sabji

• Add the sliced bitter gourd rounds to the masala.
• Mix well, ensuring that the masala coats the bitter gourd slices evenly.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the karele ki sabji cook for about 15-20 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
• Once the bitter gourd slices are tender and well-cooked, sprinkle garam masala over the sabji and mix gently.
• Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

Karele ki sabji pairs well with hot rotis (Indian bread) or steamed rice. You can also serve it as a side dish with dal (lentil soup) and plain rice. The bitterness of the gourd is balanced by the aromatic spices, creating a satisfying and flavorful combination.

Tips and Tricks

• To reduce the bitterness of the bitter gourd, you can sprinkle some salt over the sliced rounds and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. Then rinse the bitter gourd slices thoroughly with water before using in the recipe.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the chili powder for more or less spiciness.
• Adding a little sugar or jaggery while cooking can help balance the bitterness of the gourd.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen bitter gourd for this recipe?

Fresh bitter gourd is recommended for the best flavor and texture. However, if fresh bitter gourd is not available, you can use frozen Bitter Gourd Slices. Make sure to thaw them before using.

Can I skip the ginger-garlic paste in the recipe?

Ginger-garlic paste adds a distinct flavor to the dish. However, if you don't have it, you can finely chop ginger and garlic and sauté them separately before adding the onions.

Can I store the leftovers?

Yes, you can store the leftover karele ki sabji in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Karele ki sabji is a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the unique flavor of bitter gourd in a delightful way. With the right blend of spices and flavors, bitter gourd transforms into a savory and satisfying curry.