Karlyachi Bhaji

(Link to Marathi Recipe)

Bitter Gourd Bhaji

I am not a big fan of bitter gourd, but I eat it as its good for health. I try to make it healthier and tasty at the same time.



2-3 Bitter Gourds
3-4 tbsp Coarsely Ground Roasted Peanuts
1 tsp Garam Masala (or per taste)
1.5 tsp Red Chili Powder (or per taste)
Salt per taste
1.5 tbsp Grated Jaggery
*1.5 tsp Tamarind Pulp
1 tbsp Oil
For Tempering - 1/2 tsp Cumin Seeds, 1/2 tsp Mustard Seeds, Pinch of Hing, Pinch of Turmeric powder


Preparation -
Wash bitter gourds and chop the tips off. If you do not like too much of bitterness, remove the inside with back of a spoon. If you are okay, leave it. Then thinly slice all the gourds. Sprinkle little bit of salt over and leave it untouched for 10-15 minutes.
Squeeze the water out of the gourd pieces if you want, it reduces bitterness. It is okay to leave them as is like I do.
Heat oil in a heavy bottom frying pan. Make tempering as usual by adding cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once mustard seeds start spluttering, add hing and turmeric powder.
Add sliced bitter gourd, lower the heat and saute for almost 10 minutes or so.
Add salt, red chili powder, garam masala, peanut powder, jaggery and tamarind pulp. Mix thoroughly.
Saute for another 3-4 minutes.
Sprinkle chopped cilantro and serve with chapatis.

Tips -  

1. * I usually add little warm water to 1 tablespoon size of tamarind and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Then squeeze the pulp. 
2. Never use water while cooking bitter gourd, that makes the bhaji more bitter.