Bharwa Karele (Stuffed Bitter Gourd)

Bharwa Karele, a traditional Indian dish, is known for its distinctive taste and health benefits. This delicacy involves hollowed-out bitter gourds stuffed with a spicy and tangy filling made from a mix of spices and sautéed onions. Despite its bitterness, the dish is highly revered in Indian cuisine for its complex flavor profile and its ability to pair well with a variety of other dishes. It’s a testament to the Indian culinary tradition of turning simple ingredients into exquisite fare.

The preparation of Bharwa Karele is an art that balances the bitterness of the gourd with the robust flavors of the filling. This dish is often enjoyed during the warmer months, offering a refreshing change from the usual fare. It’s not just the flavors that make Bharwa Karele special; it’s also the health benefits, as bitter gourd is known for its medicinal properties, including blood sugar regulation.

Ingredients:

• For the stuffing:
  • 2-3 tbsp cooking oil (mustard oil preferred)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/4 tsp asafoetida
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2 dry red chilies, broken
  • 2 tbsp coriander powder
  • 3 tbsp coarsely ground fennel seeds
  • 2 tbsp dry mango powder (amchur powder)
  • 1/2 cup grated coconut (optional)
  • Salt to taste
• For the karelas:
  • 6 medium-sized bitter gourds (karelas)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the karelas: Wash the karelas thoroughly. Cut them lengthwise, leaving the stem intact. Using a spoon, scrape out the flesh and seeds, leaving a thin layer of flesh on the sides. Rub the inside with salt and turmeric powder, set aside for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and pat them dry.
2. Prepare the stuffing: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and asafoetida. Once cumin seeds crackle, add the chopped onions and cook until softened.
3. Add turmeric powder, red chilies, coriander powder, fennel seeds, and dry mango powder. Stir and cook for a minute, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
4. Add salt to taste and grated coconut (if using). Mix well and cook for another minute. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. Stuff the karelas: Take the prepared karelas and fill them tightly with the spice mixture. You can use a spoon or your fingers to pack the stuffing in.
6. Cooking the karelas: Heat oil in a pan or pressure cooker. Gently place the stuffed karelas in the pan and cook on medium heat, turning them occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
   • Using a pan: Cover the pan and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the karelas are tender, adding a splash of water occasionally to prevent burning.
   • Using a pressure cooker: Add 1/4 cup of water to the pressure cooker, close the lid, and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the karelas from the pan and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Enjoy Bharwa Karela hot with rice or roti.

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

Time Required

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Important Points

• Soaking the karelas in salted water helps reduce their inherent bitterness.
• Ensure the stuffing is cooled before filling the karelas to prevent it from cooking further.
• Cooking on low heat is crucial to ensure the karelas are cooked through without burning the outer skin.

Serving Bharwa Karele

Serve Bharwa Karele hot as a side dish with flatbreads like roti or paratha, or with plain steamed rice. It can be enjoyed as part of a main meal, providing a flavorful and healthy addition to your diet.

Closing Thoughts

Bharwa Karele embodies the essence of Indian cuisine, transforming the bitter gourd into a delicious meal that tantalizes the palate. This dish is a perfect example of how balanced flavors can elevate a simple ingredient to a gourmet level. Whether you’re a fan of bitter gourd or looking to try something new, Bharwa Karele offers a unique taste experience that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutritional benefits. Give this recipe a try and discover the delight of Indian home cooking.

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