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Bharwan Karela Masala Gravy

Authentic Bharwan Karela—stuffed bitter gourd packed with spiced onions & masalas, slow-cooked for rich, bold flavors! A perfect Indian side dish.
Pratima Singh
Bharwan Karela

Introduction:

Bharwa Karela, or stuffed bitter gourd, is a traditional Indian delicacy that naturally transforms bitter vegetables into a delicious, inevitable dish. Filled with spices with onions, bs peanuts and aromatic spices, it is cooked slowly for perfection, adjusting bold flavors with a sign of sweetness. Dear in many homes, this dish is beautifully combined with bread or force and rice, giving a unique combination of taste and nutrition. 

Ingredients:

  • Bitter gourd: 4-6  
  • Onion: 1 large  
  • Tomato: 1 medium  
  • Green chili: 23, slit or finely chopped   
  • Ginger garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon  
  • Fresh coriander leaves: a small handful of, chopped  
  • Toasted cumin powder: 1 tablespoon  
  • Red chili powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Coriander powder: 1 tbsp.  
  • Turmeric powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Garam Masala : 1 tbsp. 
  • Dry mango powder : 1/2 tsp
  • Salt: to taste  
  • Oil: 2-3 tablespoons  
  • A pinch of sugar 

Instructions:

  1. Prepare bitter gourd:
    • Wash the karela well. Using a knife, cut each bitter lengthwise. Remove the seed with a spoon. 
    • Alternatively, sprinkle a little salt inside and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw extra bitterness, then rinse and dry.
  2. Make stuffing:
    • In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil on medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and bake until they are translucent and slightly golden.
    • Introduce green chillies and gingerly paste, cook until the raw aroma is dispersed. Mix in the tomatoes and allow the mixture to soften.
  3. Add spices:
    • Add roasted cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric, cayenne powder and salt. Stir well and mix the flavors for 2-3 minutes.
    • Stir in chopped coriander and dried mango powder. For additional balance of taste, add a pinch of sugar if selected.
    • Allow the stuffing to cook until it reaches a little thick consistency. Remove from heat and set to side.
  4. Stuff the Karela:
    • Carefully cut the karela in the center without cutting all the way, making a pocket for stuffing.
    • Spoon the samely prepared in each karela. Press the filling firmly so that it sticks well inside the cavity.
  5. Cooking Bharwan karela :
    • Deep in a pan or pan, heat the remaining oil on medium heat.
    • Place the stuffed karela in the PAN and cover with lid. Cook slowly for about 15-20 minutes, sometimes rotate to ensure even cooking.
    • Karela  will soften, and the outer layer will develop a nice caramelize texture while absorbing the flavors of the filling.
  6. Serving instructions:
    • Heat your filled karela from the side of the rice or fresh rotis. 
    • Garnish with extra chopped coriander for vibrant appearance.   

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