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Karela Besan Bhaji

Karela Besan Bhaji

Print Recipe
Spicy gram flour stir-fried bitter gourd.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 2–3 medium karela, thinly sliced (seeds removed if large)
  • ¼ cup besan (gram flour)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1–2 green chilies, chopped
  • ½ tsp mustard seeds
  • ½ tsp jeera
  • Pinch of hing
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1–2 tsp oil
  • Optional: ½ tsp jaggery to balance bitterness

Instructions

  • Prep the Karela
  • Sprinkle salt on the sliced karela and set aside for 15–20 mins. Squeeze gently to reduce bitterness.
  • Toast the Besan
  • In a dry pan, roast besan until aromatic and slightly golden. Keep aside.
  • Temper ' Sauté
  • Heat oil, add mustard, cumin, and hing. Add green chilies and onion. Sauté until onions are soft.
  • Cook the Karela
  • Add karela, turmeric, chili powder, salt. Stir-fry for 8–10 mins until tender and edges start browning.
  • Add Besan
  • Sprinkle roasted besan evenly. Stir well so it coats the karela. Cook on low for 2–3 mins more. Add jaggery if desired.