Karela Tamarind Masala

Karela or Bitter melon or Bitter gourd  is that vegetable which is generally not liked by many. 

You may dislike the bitterness of bitter melon, however this vegetable can benefit your health in several ways. Bitter gourds come in different colors and sizes. Indian bitter melons are 4 inches long, whereas Chinese bitter melons are 8 inches long.

Its size can change with changes in weather. It is widely included in Asian food. You will be surprised to know that this Karela which you were looking at since childhood was not native of India or Asia; it was first found in Africa. With time bitter gourd spread throughout Asia.

1 cup of bitter gourd contains nutrients like proteins, carbs, fats, fiber,  Vitamin A, B1, B2 C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc and potassium. 

This stuffed karela recipe is very delicious. People who don't usually like karela sabzi are also in love with this version. The reason is that it does not taste bitter at all!

Ingredients: 

1-Karela -4 (peeled and slit, seeds removed)

2-Grated onion 1

3-Garlic cloves 3-4 (grated)

4-Kalonji masala-1 heaped tbsp.

5-Turmeric powder- 1/2 tsp.

6.Red chilli powder-1 tsp. or to taste

7-Salt

8- Amchur powder-1 tsp.

9-Tamarind - 2 keylime sized (soaked in 2 tbsp. hot water)

10-2  + 2 tbsp. mustard oil divided(you can use any edible oil except olive)

Procedure:

* Apply salt and turmeric powder on karelas generously (Inside and outside both) and leave for 4- 5 hours.

*Heat 2 tbsp. oil in a pan and add grated onion-garlic paste with all the spices and salt and cover and cook for 5 minutes.

*Now add tamarind pulp and cook till masala is thick and water is dried out. Keep aside.

*In a pot, steam or boil karela till it is a little tender, don't cook it completely, cool.

*Stuff masala into it and secure with thread or toothpick.

* Heat remaining mustard oil and add karela, sprinkle a pinch of salt upon it and cover and cook for 4 minutes.

* Open the lid and turn over, cook it from another side too.

* serve with dal, chawal, roti and enjoy!

Recipe for  Kalonji masala