Ingredients

1/2 kg karela ( bittergourd )
2 -3 tablespoons tamarind pulp
2 teaspoons salt
3 -4 teaspoons coriander powder ( I use 3tsp )
2 teaspoons saunf
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin seed
2 tablespoons water
1 pinch hing
3 tablespoons crushed gur
salt
cilantro ( for garnishing )
Khatta-Meetha Karela, also known as Sour N' Sweet Bitter Gourd, is a popular Indian dish that is enjoyed as a side dish with rice and dal. The bitter gourd, or karela, is first marinated in salt to reduce its bitterness. It is then sautéed with spices like coriander powder and saunf, and finished with a sweet and tangy tamarind-gur sauce. The garnish of cilantro adds freshness to the dish. This recipe is a delicious twist to a healthy vegetable, and is sure to convert even the toughest of bitter gourd critics.

Instructions

1.Cut the bitter gourd into thin round pieces, and add 2 teaspoons of salt. Mix well and keep aside for an hour.
2.After an hour, rinse the bitter gourd and gently squeeze out the excess water.
3.Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once the cumin seeds start to splutter, add a pinch of hing and sauté for a few seconds.
4.Add the bitter gourd and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
5.Add coriander powder, saunf, and tamarind pulp. Mix well and let it cook for 5-7 minutes.
6.When the bitter gourd is almost cooked, add crushed gur and 2 tablespoons of water. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.

PROS

Khatta-Meetha Karela is a perfect blend of flavors – sourness from tamarind and sweetness from gur balance the bitterness of the bitter gourd.

This dish is a healthy addition to any diet, as bitter gourd is known to aid in blood sugar management and improve digestion.

It is easy to make and requires only a few basic ingredients.

CONS

Some people may find the bitterness of the gourd overpowering, despite the addition of tamarind and gur.

This dish may not be suitable for those with low tolerance for spice, as it contains coriander powder and saunf that add heat to the recipe.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Bitter gourd is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like folate, zinc, and magnesium.
It has been shown to improve insulin resistance, lower blood sugar levels, and improve digestion and heart health.
Tamarind is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, and has anti-inflammatory properties that may help with joint pain and inflammation.
Gur, or jaggery, is a healthier alternative to sugar, as it is unrefined and contains micronutrients like iron and potassium.

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