Kerela Masala

The kerela masala is a delicious dry recipe masala made with bitter gourd. This dish is native to Pakistan. Bitter melons are the most bitter of all vegetables on earth and as a child, I hated the bitter gourd, but with a more developed palate, I have come to appreciate it.

Health Benefits

Boil bitter melon leaves or fruits in water and consume it daily to fight infections build immunity.

The benefits of bitter melon juice also include treatment for type 2 diabetes. Bitter melon contains a plant-based insulin compound that helps reduce blood sugar levels. Despite its benefits for diabetics, those not affected by the disease can also consume bitter melons to stay healthy and fit. This vegetable also contains considerable amounts of fiber, which helps relieve constipation.

Ingredients

medium sized bitter gourds: 5

salt to taste

mustard oil: 1/2 tsp

cumin seeds: 1/4 tsp

fennel seeds: 1/4 tsp

raw onion paste: 1/2 cup

grated tomatoes: 1/4 cup

grated ginger: 1/2 cup

green chilli paste: 1 tsp

Turmeric powder: 1/2 tsp

dried mango powder: 1/4 tsp

Garam masala: 1/4 tsp

chopped coriander: 1/4 cup

Oil for deep-frying

How To Make Kerela Masala

1. Slit each bitter gourd lengthwise, using a sharp knife.
2. Scoop out the insides carefully creating a hollow in the center.
3. Apply a little salt to the inside and outside of the bitter gourd and let sit 10 to 15 minutes.
4. In a pan over medium-high flame, add mustard oil and splutter mustard seeds, cumin seeds and fennel seeds.
5. Add the onion paste and sauté for 2 minutes.
6. Add the tomatoes, ginger, green chili paste, turmeric powder, dry mango powder, garam masala, salt, and coriander. Mix well.
7. Sauté until the mixture separates from oil and let cool.
8. Drain the water from the bitter gourd and pat dry.
9. Fill the bitter gourd with the prepared mixture and tie with a thread.
10. Heat the oil in a pan on a medium flame and deep-fry the stuffed bitter gourds until they turn golden brown on all the sides.

Trivia

Goya chanpuru is an Okinawan stir-fried dish for the health-conscious inhabitants of the island. The dish mainly comprises bitter melon, onion, tofu, pork, and eggs.