Bitter gourd fry is a flavorful and nutritious Indian side dish made by slicing bitter gourd (also known as karela) into thin rounds and frying them with spices. Despite its naturally bitter taste, the dish becomes deliciously crisp and tangy when cooked with ingredients like turmeric, chili powder, and amchur...

Ingredients
- Bitter gourd (medium-sized)1
- Chilli powder1/2tsp
- Turmeric powder1/4tsp
- Garam masala powder1/2tsp
- Amchur powder1tsp
- Chickpea flour1 1/2tbsp
- Corn flour1tbsp
- Salt (for salting)1tbsp
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil (for deep frying)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
19.5kcal (0.97%)
Protein
0.7g (1.4%)
Carbs
3.4g (1.24%)
Sugars
0.2g (0.34%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Crispy Bitter Gourd Fry / Karela Fry
- Step 1
Cut the bitter gourd into 1/4-inch round pieces.
- Step 2
Add 1 tbsp of salt to the bitter gourd slices and let them rest for 30-45 minutes.
- Step 3
After resting, water will ooze out from the bitter gourd slices. Rinse them thoroughly to reduce bitterness.
- Step 4
Add chili powder, turmeric powder, amchur powder, garam masala powder, salt, chickpea flour, and corn flour to the rinsed bitter gourd slices. Mix and combine well.
- Step 5
Heat oil for deep frying in a pan.
- Step 6
Once the oil is hot, turn the flame to high and add the bitter gourd pieces. After a few seconds, reduce the flame to medium.
- Step 7
Fry the bitter gourd pieces on medium flame until they turn crispy.
- Step 8
Serve the crispy bitter gourd fry hot and enjoy!
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
19.5kcal (0.97%)
Protein
0.7g (1.4%)
Carbs
3.4g (1.24%)
Sugars
0.2g (0.34%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Salting and rinsing the bitter gourd slices helps reduce their bitterness significantly.
Ensure the oil is hot before adding the bitter gourd slices to achieve a crispy texture.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences for a more personalized flavor.
FAQS
How can I reduce the bitterness of bitter gourd?
Salting the bitter gourd slices and letting them rest for 30-45 minutes helps reduce bitterness. Rinse them thoroughly afterward.
Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying?
Yes, you can use an air fryer to make the bitter gourd fry healthier. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
What can I serve with bitter gourd fry?
Bitter gourd fry pairs well with rice and dal or roti as a side dish.
Can I store leftover bitter gourd fry?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or pan for best results.
Is bitter gourd fry healthy?
Yes, bitter gourd is known for its health benefits, including regulating blood sugar levels. Frying it with spices makes it flavorful while retaining its nutritional value.
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Gayatri
(@rene121)
Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. ...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia