All About Bitter gourd: Benefits and Recipes

Bitter gourd is one vegetable that many of us dislike. However, every family has individuals who love bitter gourd and its unique taste. It really depends on the way you cook bitter gourd too so you might as well try being a bit creative with this wonder veggie to make delectable delights people won’t ever expect!

Health benefits of bitter gourd

• Bitter gourd is extremely rich in antioxidants which protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals. These antioxidants also help the body get rid of the toxins. Bitter gourd has lots of vitamin C which is known to have anti-aging properties.
• Bitter gourd is also believed to be beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes. This is on account of a chemical called Polypeptide-p or p-insulin. This compound acts in the manner of insulin and can help keep diabetes under control.
• Bitter gourd also contains lectin which affects the peripheral tissues in the brain and can help reduce appetite.
• It is recommended to regularly consume bitter gourd juice to keep blood sugar levels under control.

Bitter gourd recipes

• Karela juice: A timeless recipe that packs in the goodness of bitter gourd. Begin by cutting the bitter gourd but do not remove its skin. Extract the juice by processing it in a juicer with some ginger. Dilute the first lot and continue with the rest of the pulp. Blend with black salt, lemon juice, honey, salt, turmeric powder, mint leaves, and black pepper powder. Serve immediately!
• Stuffed Karela with Aloo: The recipe uses the bitter gourd stuffed with delectable aloo masala for a uniquely tangy taste. The aloo masala is prepared by blending chaat masala, red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and turmeric powder with smashed boiled potatoes. Cleaned karelas are then stuffed with this filling and finally fried to perfection for a yummy taste!

Lakshmi sashidhar