Ingredients
For the Bitter Gourd Preparation | करेला तैयार करने के लिए:
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करेले | Bitter Gourds - 6-8 (washed and cleaned)
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नमक | Salt - As needed (to reduce bitterness)
For the Filling | भरावन के लिए:
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प्याज | Onion (finely chopped) - 2
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तेल | Oil - 2 tablespoons
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अदरक-लहसुन पेस्ट | Ginger-Garlic Paste - 1 teaspoon
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हल्दी पाउडर | Turmeric Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
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धनिया पाउडर | Coriander Powder - 1 teaspoon
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लाल मिर्च पाउडर | Red Chili Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
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जीरा पाउडर | Cumin Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
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अमचूर पाउडर | Dry Mango Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
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गरम मसाला | Garam Masala - 1/4 teaspoon
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नमक | Salt - To taste
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हरी मिर्च | Green Chilies (chopped) - 1/2 teaspoon
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काजू और किशमिश | Cashews and Raisins (chopped) - 1/4 cup (optional)
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करेले का गूदा | Scooped Bitter Gourd Pulp - From the gourds
Directions
Preparing the Bitter Gourds (करेला तैयार करें):
Wash the karela thoroughly and trim the ends.
- Cut and Scoop out the seeds and pulp using a spoon or knife, creating space for the filling. Save the pulp for the stuffing.
- In Boiling water and add turmeric powder ,salt and karela
Preparing the Filling (भरावन तैयार करें):
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, dry mango powder, garam masala, salt, and green chilies. Mix well.
- Add the scooped karela pulp and optional chopped dry fruits (cashews and raisins). Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes until well combined.
Stuffing the Karelas (करेले में भरावन भरें):
Take each prepared karela and stuff it generously with the filling.
Cooking the Stuffed Karela (भरवां करेला पकाएं):
Heat a little oil in a wide pan or kadhai and arrange the stuffed karelas in the pan and cook on low heat,
- Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the pan and let the karelas cook for 10-12 minutes until tender and golden brown.
Serving (परोसें):
Serve hot with roti, paratha, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Recipe Note
Tips for Perfect Bharwa Karela
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Reduce Bitterness:
Salting the karela and letting it rest is essential to reduce bitterness. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
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Seal Properly:
Ensure the karela is tightly stuffed and secured to prevent the filling from spilling during cooking.
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Cook on Low Heat:
Slow cooking helps the karela absorb the flavors of the stuffing.
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Customize Filling:
Add grated coconut, sesame seeds, or more dry fruits to the filling for variety.
Cultural Significance
Bharwa Karela is a beloved dish in Indian households, especially in regions where karela is celebrated for its health benefits. Known for its slightly bitter taste, karela is often transformed into a delicacy by stuffing it with flavorful masala. This dish is a testament to the ingenuity of Indian cooking, turning a humble vegetable into a wholesome and satisfying meal. Bharwa Karela is perfect for family dinners and a great way to introduce karela to those who may be hesitant to try it.
