Bharwa Karela | Stuffed Bitter Gourd

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Abhishek Boke (@kautumbikkitchen)

Stuffed bitter gourd or bharwan karela is a delicacy and a popular Indian side that is served with rotis or parathas. This recipe combines the bitterness of karela with a flavorful stuffing made from roasted peanut powder, fresh coconut, and spices. It's a healthy and delicious dish that pairs perfectly...

Bharwa Karela | Stuffed Bitter Gourd recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
15min
Total Time
30min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 stuffed bitter gourd)

Main Ingredients

  • Karela/Bitter Gourd
    Karela/Bitter Gourd
    4
  • Roasted Peanut Powder
    Roasted Peanut Powder
    1/2cup
  • Fresh Coconut
    Fresh Coconut
    1/2cup
  • Turmeric
    Turmeric
    1/2tsp
  • Red Chilly Powder
    Red Chilly Powder
    1tsp
  • Coriander Powder
    Coriander Powder
    1tsp
  • Hing
    Hing
    1/4tsp
  • Salt
    Salt
    1tsp
  • Jaggery
    Jaggery
    1tbsp
  • Coriander
    Coriander
    2tbsp
  • Lemon Juice
    Lemon Juice
    1tbsp
  • Oil
    Oil
    2tbsp
  • Fine Chopped Green Chilly
    Fine Chopped Green Chilly
    2

How to make Bharwa Karela | Stuffed Bitter Gourd

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Boil karelas in salted turmeric water until slightly tender.

  2. Step 2

    Mix roasted peanut powder, fresh coconut, turmeric, red chilly powder, coriander powder, hing, salt, jaggery, coriander, and lemon juice to prepare the stuffing.

  3. Step 3

    Fill the stuffing tightly into the boiled karelas.

Cooking

  1. Step 1

    Heat oil in a kadhai and add chopped green chillies.

  2. Step 2

    Place the stuffed karelas in the kadhai and cook on medium flame for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

125.6kcal (6.28%)

Protein

3.6g (7.3%)

Carbs

6.0g (2.2%)

Sugars

1.9g (3.9%)

Healthy Fat

5.7g

Unhealthy Fat

4.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the karelas are boiled just enough to make them tender but not too soft, as they need to hold the stuffing.

  2. Adjust the jaggery quantity based on your preference for sweetness.

  3. Use fresh coconut for better flavor and texture in the stuffing.

FAQS

  1. Can I skip boiling the karelas?

    Boiling helps reduce the bitterness of karelas and makes them easier to stuff. Skipping this step may result in a more bitter taste.

  2. What can I substitute for jaggery?

    You can use brown sugar or honey as a substitute for jaggery, though the flavor may differ slightly.

  3. Can I use dry coconut instead of fresh coconut?

    Yes, but fresh coconut adds a better texture and flavor to the stuffing.

  4. How do I store leftover stuffed karelas?

    Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them on a stovetop before serving.

  5. What can I serve stuffed karelas with?

    Stuffed karelas are best served with rotis, parathas, or plain rice.

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Abhishek Boke

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