Delicious Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji Recipe (stuffed bitter gourd bharwa karela)
Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji is a delectable and nutritious Indian dish made by stuffing bitter gourds with a spicy and tangy mixture of onions and spices.
This recipe transforms the often-overlooked karela into a mouth-watering delicacy.
Perfect for those looking to add a unique and healthy vegetable to their meal rotation, this dish pairs wonderfully with both rice and roti.
About Bharwa Karela ki sabji
stuffed karela
Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji also known as Bharwa Karela Recipe or masala bharwa karela is a classic Indian dish that turns the often-misunderstood bitter gourd, or karela, into a culinary delight. Renowned for its unique bitterness, karela might not be everyone’s first choice, but this recipe elevates its flavor, making it appealing even to those who usually avoid it.
The dish involves stuffing the karela with a flavorful mix of spices and onions, creating a delightful balance of tastes that complements the natural bitterness of the gourd.
To start, the karela is washed, halved, and its seeds are removed to make space for the stuffing.
The stuffing is prepared by sautéing finely chopped onions, green chilies, grated ginger, and garlic in mustard oil.
This is followed by adding a medley of raw spices like ajwain, kalonji, mustard seeds, poppy seeds, and methi seeds, which infuse the mixture with rich, aromatic flavors.
Next, powdered spices including turmeric, red chili, cumin, coriander, and garam masala are incorporated, along with fresh coriander leaves, to create a deeply flavorful masala.
Each karela is then filled with this spicy mixture, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor.
The stuffed karelas are cooked in the same pan until they achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior, while remaining tender on the inside.
A bit of water is added towards the end to soften the karela, ensuring it is perfectly cooked.
Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji is not only a feast for the palate but also a boon for health.
Karela is packed with nutrients and has health benefits like regulating blood sugar levels, aiding digestion, and boosting immunity. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, jeera rice, chapati, or roti, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you are a fan of karela or trying it for the first time, Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this unique vegetable.
Health Benefits of Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji
Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
Rich in Nutrients: Karela is a good source of vitamins A, C, and several B vitamins.
Blood Sugar Control: It has compounds that mimic insulin, helping to manage blood sugar levels.
Digestive Health: High in fiber, karela supports good digestive health.
Antioxidant Properties: The dish is rich in antioxidants that help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Ingredients list of Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji
(bharwa karela ka masala)
For Karela:
- 5 medium-sized karela (bitter gourds)
- Salt
For Stuffing:
- 4 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic
- 5 chopped green chilies
- Fresh coriander leaves
- 2 dry red chilies
- 1/2 teaspoon chat masala aur amchur powder( optional)
Raw Masala:
- 1/4 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
- 1/4 teaspoon kalonji (nigella seeds)
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon poppy seeds
- A pinch of methi seeds (fenugreek seeds)
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
Powder Masalas:
- 1/3 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/3 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/3 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/3 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
Other:
- Salt to taste
- Mustard oil
Instructions of Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji
Step 1: Prepare the Karela
Wash the karela thoroughly.
Cut each karela in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon.
If the karela is small, make a slit lengthwise without cutting it in half to remove the seeds.
add little salt and mix well.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
Heat a pan and add mustard oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the raw masala ingredients one by one: 1/4 teaspoon of ajwain, kalonji seeds, mustard seeds, poppy seeds, a pinch of methi seeds,1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds.
Stir for a few seconds.
Add the chopped onions and green chilies to the pan.
Stir well on medium heat for about 1 minute.
Add the 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger and 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic.
Stir for a few seconds.
Incorporate the powder masalas: 1/3 teaspoon of turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder each, 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala powder and salt.
Stir well on medium to low heat for 2 minutes.
Ensure the masala does not burn.
Add chopped coriander leaves, stir well, and then remove the masala mixture from the pan and let it cool.
Stuff each karela generously with the prepared masala mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Karela
In the same pan, heat more mustard oil.
Add the remaining chopped onions and cook until soft.
Place the stuffed karela in the pan, ensuring the slit side faces up.
Cook on medium heat, turning occasionally until the karela are fried evenly.
Add a little water to the pan, cover, and cook on medium to low heat for 5-7 minutes until the karela become soft.
Turn off the heat and serve hot with rice or roti.
In Short, Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji is a flavorful and nutritious dish that offers a delightful way to enjoy the health benefits of bitter gourd.
Perfect for lunch or dinner, it pairs excellently with rice or roti.
Try this recipe and bring a touch of traditional Indian cuisine to your table!
Also Read:
Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji
1. Selecting the Right Karela
Freshness: Choose medium-sized, fresh, and firm karelas with a vibrant green color.
Avoid those that are soft or have yellow spots, as they may be overly bitter and not as fresh.
2. Reducing Bitterness
Salting: After cutting and de-seeding the karela, rub them with salt and let them sit for
5 to 10 minutes.
This helps to draw out the bitterness.
Rinse thoroughly with water before stuffing.
Soaking: Soak the salted karela in water for another 10 minutes for even better results.
3. Enhancing the Flavor of the Stuffing
Slow Cooking: Cook the stuffing on medium to low heat to allow the spices to release their full flavors.
This ensures a well-blended and aromatic stuffing.
Balance Spices: Adjust the quantity of spices to suit your taste.
Adding a little sugar or jaggery to the stuffing can balance the bitterness and enhance the overall flavor.
4. Stuffing the Karela
Generous Filling: Stuff the karela generously with the masala mixture.
Press the stuffing firmly inside to ensure it stays intact during cooking.
Secure with Thread: If you find it difficult to keep the stuffing inside, you can tie the stuffed karela with a thread.
Remove the thread before serving.
5. Cooking the Karela
Even Cooking: Place the karela in the pan with the slit side facing up initially to prevent the stuffing from falling out.
Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Use a Lid: Cover the pan while cooking to retain moisture and cook the karela thoroughly.
This helps in softening the karela and blending the flavors well.
6. Achieving Perfect Texture
Crispy Exterior: For a crispy exterior, cook the stuffed karela on medium heat without covering initially.
Once they start to turn golden brown, add a little water, cover, and cook on low heat to soften them.
Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious not to overcook the karela, as they can become too soft and lose their shape.
Cook until they are just tender.
7. Presentation and Serving
Garnish: Garnish the cooked karela with fresh coriander leaves for a vibrant look and an added layer of flavor.
Serve Hot: Serve Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, chapati, roti, or paratha for the best taste experience.
8. Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked karela.
Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
9. Experiment with Variations
Different Fillings: Experiment with various fillings like paneer, dry fish,fish, prawns, roasted gram flour, or minced meat for a unique twist.
Spice Levels: Adjust the spice levels to suit your preference.
You can make it milder by reducing the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.
FAQs: (karela bharwa sabji)
1. How can I reduce the bitterness of karela?
Soaking the karela in salted water for 30 minutes before cooking can help reduce its bitterness.
2. Can I store Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji?
Yes, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
3. What are the health benefits of karela?
Karela is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. It aids in digestion, boosts immunity, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
4. Can I use a different type of oil instead of mustard oil?
Yes, you can use other oils like vegetable oil or olive oil, but mustard oil adds a distinctive flavor that complements the dish well.
5. Is it necessary to remove the seeds from the karela?
Removing the seeds helps to reduce the bitterness and makes space for the stuffing.
However, some people prefer to keep the seeds for their added texture and slight bitterness.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?
Yes, you can add finely chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or grated carrots to the stuffing for added flavor and nutrition.
7. How do I ensure the karela cooks evenly?
Cook the karela on medium to low heat, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Adding a little water and covering the pan helps in cooking them thoroughly.
8. Can I make this dish without onions and garlic?
Yes, you can make a Jain version of this dish by omitting onions and garlic.
Substitute with additional spices and herbs to enhance the flavor.
9. Is Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji suitable for freezing?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked karela in an airtight container for up to a 3 days.
Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
10. How can I make the stuffing less spicy?
Adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder to reduce the spiciness.
You can also add a bit of grated coconut or crushed peanuts to balance the heat.
11. What can I serve with Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, jeera rice, chapati, roti, or paratha.
You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or raita to balance the flavors.
12. How do I choose the best karela for this recipe?
Look for medium-sized karela that are firm, fresh, and green.
Avoid those that are overly soft, yellow, or have blemishes.
13. Can I bake the stuffed karela instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the stuffed karela in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
14. What are some variations of Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji?
You can experiment with different stuffing ingredients like grated paneer, dry fish, fish, roasted gram flour, or minced meat for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
15. How can I make the karela more flavorful?
Marinating the karela with a little salt and turmeric before stuffing can enhance their flavor.
Additionally, using a generous amount of spices and herbs in the stuffing will make the dish more delicious.
Recipe Card:
Bharwa Karela ki Sabji | bharwa karela | Delicious karela bharwa sabji
Ingredients
Ingredients list of Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji
- bharwa karela ka masala
For Karela:
- 5 medium-sized karela bitter gourds
- Salt
For Stuffing:
- 4 medium-sized onions finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic
- 5 chopped green chilies
- Fresh coriander leaves
- 2 dry red chilies
- 1/2 teaspoon chat masala aur amchur powder optional
Raw Masala:
- 1/4 teaspoon ajwain carom seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon kalonji nigella seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon poppy seeds
- A pinch of methi seeds fenugreek seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
Powder Masalas:
- 1/3 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/3 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/3 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/3 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
Other:
- Salt to taste
- Mustard oil
Instructions
Instructions of Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji
Step 1: Prepare the Karela
- Wash the karela thoroughly.
- Cut each karela in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon.
- If the karela is small, make a slit lengthwise without cutting it in half to remove the seeds.
- add little salt and mix well.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- Heat a pan and add mustard oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the raw masala ingredients one by one: 1/4 teaspoon of ajwain, kalonji seeds, mustard seeds, poppy seeds, a pinch of methi seeds,1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds.
- Stir for a few seconds.
- Add the chopped onions and green chilies to the pan.
- Stir well on medium heat for about 1 minute.
- Add the 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger and 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic.
- Stir for a few seconds.
- Incorporate the powder masalas: 1/3 teaspoon of turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder each, 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala powder and salt.
- Stir well on medium to low heat for 2 minutes.
- Ensure the masala does not burn.
- Add chopped coriander leaves, stir well, and then remove the masala mixture from the pan and let it cool.
- Stuff each karela generously with the prepared masala mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Karela
- In the same pan, heat more mustard oil.
- Add the remaining chopped onions and cook until soft.
- Place the stuffed karela in the pan, ensuring the slit side faces up.
- Cook on medium heat, turning occasionally until the karela are fried evenly.
- Add a little water to the pan, cover, and cook on medium to low heat for 5-7 minutes until the karela become soft.
- Turn off the heat and serve hot with rice or roti.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji
1. Selecting the Right Karela
Freshness: Choose medium-sized, fresh, and firm karelas with a vibrant green color. Avoid those that are soft or have yellow spots, as they may be overly bitter and not as fresh.2. Reducing Bitterness
Salting: After cutting and de-seeding the karela, rub them with salt and let them sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps to draw out the bitterness. Rinse thoroughly with water before stuffing. Soaking: Soak the salted karela in water for another 10 minutes for even better results.3. Enhancing the Flavor of the Stuffing
Slow Cooking: Cook the stuffing on medium to low heat to allow the spices to release their full flavors. This ensures a well-blended and aromatic stuffing. Balance Spices: Adjust the quantity of spices to suit your taste. Adding a little sugar or jaggery to the stuffing can balance the bitterness and enhance the overall flavor.4. Stuffing the Karela
Generous Filling: Stuff the karela generously with the masala mixture. Press the stuffing firmly inside to ensure it stays intact during cooking. Secure with Thread: If you find it difficult to keep the stuffing inside, you can tie the stuffed karela with a thread. Remove the thread before serving.5. Cooking the Karela
Even Cooking: Place the karela in the pan with the slit side facing up initially to prevent the stuffing from falling out. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Use a Lid: Cover the pan while cooking to retain moisture and cook the karela thoroughly. This helps in softening the karela and blending the flavors well.6. Achieving Perfect Texture
Crispy Exterior: For a crispy exterior, cook the stuffed karela on medium heat without covering initially. Once they start to turn golden brown, add a little water, cover, and cook on low heat to soften them. Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious not to overcook the karela, as they can become too soft and lose their shape. Cook until they are just tender.7. Presentation and Serving
Garnish: Garnish the cooked karela with fresh coriander leaves for a vibrant look and an added layer of flavor. Serve Hot: Serve Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, chapati, roti, or paratha for the best taste experience.8. Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked karela. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.9. Experiment with Variations
Different Fillings: Experiment with various fillings like paneer, dry fish,fish, prawns, roasted gram flour, or minced meat for a unique twist. Spice Levels: Adjust the spice levels to suit your preference. You can make it milder by reducing the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.Nutrition info for Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji per serving
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx 1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Vitamin A | 400 IU |
| Vitamin C | 40 mg |
| Vitamin E | 1 mg |
| Vitamin K | 10 mcg |
| Folate | 20 mcg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg (depends on added salt) |
| Zinc | 0.5 mg |
Nutrition info for Bharwa Karela Ki Sabji per 100g serving
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 170 IU |
| Vitamin C | 17 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin K | 4 mcg |
| Folate | 8 mcg |
| Calcium | 21 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
| Magnesium | 13 mg |
| Potassium | 130 mg |
| Sodium | 130 mg (depends on added salt) |
| Zinc | 0.2 mg |