Stuffed Karela Makhani: A Deliciously Spiced Indian Bitter Gourd Recipe
55 minutes
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About Stuffed Karela Makhani: A Deliciously Spiced Indian Bitter Gourd Recipe
Discover the magic of Indian cuisine and transform sometimes-bitter karela (bitter gourd) into a culinary delight with this Stuffed Karela Makhani recipe. Imagine tender karela filled with a flavorful spiced potato mixture, simmered in a rich, creamy makhani gravy.This dish expertly balances the karela's unique flavor with aromatic spices and a velvety smooth sauce. Savor the complexity and richness alongside roti or rice for a truly satisfying and unforgettable meal.
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See the 30-Day PlanRecipe Time & More
Prep25 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total55 minutes
Ingredients
Karela (Bitter Gourd)
- 3 Bitter Gourd medium-sized
Stuffing
- 2 Potatoes boiled and mashed
- 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste
- 0.25 tsp Pepper black
- 1 tbsp Coriander finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Mint Leaves finely chopped
Makhani Gravy
- 2 Onions finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Oil divided
- 1 tbsp Oil for frying karela
- 1 cup Tomato Purée
- 1 tbsp Ginger grated
- 0.5 tsp Chili crushed, green
- 1 tsp Coriander Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin Powder
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Garam Masala
- 0.5 tsp Sugar
- 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste
- 2 tbsp Heavy Cream
Instructions
- Wash the bitter gourds and gently scrape the skin to remove any blemishes. This helps to minimize any bitterness.
- Cut each bitter gourd into three sections. Remove the seeds and white pith using a spoon. This is the main source of bitterness.
- In a pressure cooker, boil the karela pieces with a small amount of water. After one whistle, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. Parboiling the karela softens it and further reduces bitterness.
- In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, salt, black pepper, chopped coriander, and chopped mint. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Gently stuff the potato mixture into the karela sections. Ensure each piece is adequately filled.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the stuffed karela until lightly browned on all sides. This adds a delicious texture and depth of flavor. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the grated ginger and crushed green chili. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the tomato purée and cook, covered, over low heat for 5 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to soften and meld with the other flavors.
- Stir in the coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well to combine.
- Add 1 cup of water and bring the gravy to a simmer. Simmering allows the flavors to deepen and the gravy to thicken slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. This adds richness and creaminess to the makhani gravy.
- Place the fried stuffed karela in a serving dish. Pour the makhani gravy over the karela. Serve hot with roti or steamed rice.
Recipe Notes
Good To Know
- To reduce bitterness, sprinkle salt over sliced karela, let rest for 20–30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- For richer flavor and texture, lightly pan-fry the stuffed karela before adding to the makhani gravy.
- For a vegan version, substitute the cream with cashew or coconut cream.
- Garnish with fresh mint and a lemon juice drizzle just before serving.
Expert Tips
- Adjust the spice level of the makhani gravy to your preference by adding more or less chili powder.
- For a smoother gravy, blend a portion of the cooked makhani sauce before adding the karela.
- Serve the stuffed karela makhani with naan, roti, or rice for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 602kcalCarbohydrates: 69gProtein: 10gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 19gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 17mgSodium: 78mgPotassium: 2136mgFiber: 14gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 1686IUVitamin C: 183mgCalcium: 136mgIron: 6mg
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Such a scrumptious dish! Thank you.
Absolutely delicious! Thanks for sharing.
Great recipe! I’m eager to try it.
Absolutely delicious! Can’t wait to try it.