Bharwa Karela, also known as stuffed bitter gourd, is a delightful and flavorful Indian dish that offers a perfect balance of bitterness and spice. This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of karela with the comforting taste of a potato-based stuffing, creating a unique and satisfying culinary experience. Follow this step-by-step guide to recreate this delicious dish at home.

Table of Contents

Bharwa Karela (Bitter Gourds) Ingredients:

4-5 medium-sized karelas (bitter gourds)
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

2-3 medium-sized boiled potatoes
3 teaspoons mustard oil
Salt to taste

1/3 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon coriander powder

Bharwa Karela (Bitter Gourds) Instructions:

Bharwa Karela, or stuffed bitter gourd, is a delightful and flavorful Indian dish that perfectly balances the bitterness of the karela with the warmth of aromatic spices and the comforting taste of a potato-based stuffing. Follow this detailed method to recreate this unique and satisfying culinary experience in your own kitchen.
Begin by carefully preparing the karelas, which are the star ingredient of this dish. Thoroughly wash the karelas under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Using a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler, carefully peel off the outer skin of each karela. Once peeled, make a small incision along the length of each karela, being cautious not to cut all the way through. Gently remove the seeds and fibrous membranes from the inside using a small spoon or your fingers, creating a hollow cavity for the stuffing.
Next, prepare the flavorful stuffing. In a bowl, mash the boiled potatoes using a potato masher or the back of a fork. Ensure that no lumps remain, and the potatoes have a smooth, creamy texture. This will create the perfect base for the stuffing.

Heat the mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle and pop. This process helps to release their aroma and flavor, infusing the oil with a nutty essence. To this fragrant oil, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir the spices for a minute or two, allowing them to bloom and release their flavors into the oil.
Now, it’s time to incorporate the mashed potatoes into the spiced oil mixture. Add the potatoes to the pan and mix them well with the spiced oil, ensuring that the potatoes are evenly coated with the aromatic spices. Season the potato mixture with salt according to your taste preferences, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile.
Using a small spoon or your fingers, carefully stuff the spiced potato mixture into the hollowed-out karelas. Ensure that the stuffing is evenly distributed and packed tightly into each karela, filling the cavity completely.

In the same pan used for the stuffing, add more mustard oil if needed, and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the Bharwa Karelas into the pan. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, gently rotating them using tongs or a slotted spoon to ensure even cooking.
As the Bharwa Karelas fry, the aroma of the spices will fill the air, tantalizing your senses and whetting your appetite. Once they are fried to perfection, transfer the Bharwa Karelas to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve the hot and crispy Bharwa Karelas immediately, accompanied by steamed rice or your choice of bread. You can also garnish them with fresh coriander leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice for an added burst of flavor and freshness.

This Bharwa Karelarecipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The bitterness of the karela is perfectly balanced by the spicy and savory potato stuffing, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish. Enjoy this traditional Indian delicacy and savor the unique taste experience it offers, where each bite reveals a delightful interplay of flavors and textures.