About the Recipe
Bitter Gourd Masala Curry is a versatile dish that combines the bitterness of bitter gourd with the rich, tangy flavours of tomatoes and aromatic spices. It is a curry dish that is a staple in many Indian households and showcases the transformation of bitter gourd into a comforting and flavourful meal. If you enjoy experimenting with different flavours, this curry is a must-try.
Why You Will Love this Recipe
Bitter Gourd Masala Curry is a fantastic dish for anyone exploring new flavours. The bitterness, sweetness, and tanginess balance to create a unique and delicious taste. This quick and easy meal produces a hearty curry that pairs well with rice or roti. It is perfect for those seeking to add a nutritious and flavorful recipe to their collection.
Bitter Gourd Masala Curry
Cooking Tips
To reduce the bitterness of the gourd, soak the pieces in salt water for about 30 minutes before cooking. Ensure the tomatoes are cooked until pulpy for a rich base. Use fresh coconut for the best flavour and aroma.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serve Bitter Gourd Masala Curry hot with steamed rice or fresh roti. This recipe serves four people and takes about 40 minutes of active cooking time, with a total preparation time of 1 hour 10 minutes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrient Benefits
Bitter gourd, the star ingredient of this dish, is known for its numerous health benefits, including improving digestion and regulating blood sugar levels. Tomatoes provide a good source of vitamins A and C, while coconut adds healthy fats to the dish. This curry is not just delicious, but also a nutritious addition to your meal.
Other Similar Recipes
If you enjoy this curry, you might also like Baingan Bharta, Aloo Gobi, or Chana Masala.
Bitter Gourd Masala Curry
Ingredients
- 1/2 kg Bitter Gourd
- 3 Tomatoes
- 1 Big Onion
- 1/4 cup Sour Curd
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1/2 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1/2 tsp Garam Masala Powder
- 1 tsp Chilli Powder
- 1- inch piece Ginger
- 1/4 cup Scraped Coconut
- 2 tsp Sugar
- 2 tbsp Oil
- Salt (as per taste)
Instructions
- Cut the onion, mince the ginger, and chop the tomatoes.
- Cut the bitter gourd into small round pieces.
- Apply salt to the bitter gourd pieces and let them sit for 30 minutes.
- Grind the coconut separately.
- Heat oil in a pan.
- Temper the mustard seeds and add broken red chillies, then add the onions and fry until transparent.
- Add ginger and chopped tomatoes, and cook until pulpy.
- Drain the bitter gourd pieces and fry them, stirring constantly, for a few minutes.
- Add turmeric powder, chilli powder, and beaten curd.
- Add sugar, salt, and enough water to cover the pieces when the bitter gourd changes colour.
- Cover with a lid, reduce the flame, and cook until the gourd becomes soft.
- Add the ground coconut mixture, boil for a minute, and remove from the heat.
- Garnish with curry leaves.
- Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reduce the bitterness of the bitter gourd in this recipe?
To reduce the bitterness of the gourd, soak the pieces in salt water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps draw out some of the bitterness. Rinse the pieces thoroughly before frying.
Can I use a different type of gourd for this recipe?
Bitter Gourd Masala Curry is best made with bitter gourd due to its distinct flavour. You can experiment with other gourds, like a ridge or bottle, but the taste will differ. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to suit the new gourd.
What can I serve with Bitter Gourd Masala Curry?
Bitter Gourd Masala Curry pairs well with steamed rice, chapati, or paratha. You can also serve the flavours with a side of yoghurt or raita to balance the flavours. When paired with these accompaniments, this curry makes for a nutritious and balanced meal.
Can I make this curry vegan?
You can make a vegan version by substituting the sour curd with a plant-based yoghurt, like coconut or almond yoghurt. Ensure the rest of your ingredients are also vegan-friendly. The taste will still be delicious and slightly different.
How do I store leftovers of Bitter Gourd Masala Curry?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the curry on the stove or microwave until thoroughly heated before serving. The flavours often develop further, making the curry tastier the next day.
