Karela Recipe

Cheetahshop

November 29, 2022

Introduction

Karela, also known as bitter gourd, is a vegetable that is packed with nutrients and health benefits. It may not be the most popular vegetable, but it is definitely worth a try. Karela is known for its bitter taste, but with the right recipe and cooking techniques, it can be transformed into a delicious dish.

Ingredients

To make karela, you will need the following ingredients: - 2-3 karela (bitter gourd) - 2 tbsp oil - 1 tsp cumin seeds - 1 onion, finely chopped - 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste - 2 tomatoes, finely chopped - 1 tsp turmeric powder - 1 tsp red chili powder - 1 tsp coriander powder - Salt to taste - 1 tsp garam masala - 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

Instructions

Follow these instructions to make karela: 1. Wash the karela and cut it into thin slices. Remove the seeds and keep them aside. 2. In a pan, heat the oil and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle. 3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. 4. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute. 5. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft. 6. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well. 7. Add the karela seeds and mix well. Cover the pan and let it cook for 5 minutes. 8. Add the karela slices and mix well. Cover the pan and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the karela is cooked through. 9. Add the garam masala and chopped coriander leaves. Mix well. 10. Serve hot with roti or rice.

Nutrition

Karela is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of fiber, which helps in digestion and weight loss. Karela is also known to control blood sugar levels, boost immunity, and improve skin health. One serving of karela contains approximately: - Calories: 70 - Protein: 2g - Carbohydrates: 10g - Fat: 3g - Fiber: 5g

Tips for Making Karela

- Choose karela that are firm and dark green in color. Avoid karela that are soft or have yellow spots. - To reduce the bitterness of karela, soak them in salt water for 30 minutes before cooking. - Remove the seeds of karela as they are the most bitter part of the vegetable. - Cut the karela into thin slices to reduce cooking time and improve texture. - Use a non-stick pan to avoid sticking and burning. - Add a pinch of sugar or jaggery to balance the bitterness of karela. - Garnish with fresh coriander leaves to add flavor and color.

Variations of Karela Recipe

Karela can be cooked in various ways depending on personal preferences and regional cuisines. Here are some popular variations of karela recipe: - Stuffed Karela: Cut the karela lengthwise, remove the seeds, and stuff them with a mixture of spices, onions, and potatoes. Fry or bake the stuffed karela until golden brown. - Karela Chips: Cut the karela into thin slices, sprinkle salt and turmeric powder, and deep fry until crispy. Serve as a snack or side dish. - Karela Curry: Cook the karela with onions, tomatoes, and spices in a curry base. Add coconut milk or cream for a creamy texture. - Karela Chutney: Grind the karela with mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, and lemon juice. Serve as a dip or spread. - Karela Juice: Blend the karela with water, lemon juice, and honey. Strain and serve as a refreshing drink.

Conclusion

Karela may not be everyone's favorite vegetable, but it is definitely worth a try. With the right recipe and cooking techniques, karela can be transformed into a delicious and healthy dish. Try different variations of karela recipe to find your favorite one. Enjoy the bitter and sweet flavors of karela and reap its numerous health benefits.