Spicy Stuffed Bitter Gourd (Karela)

Ingredients

• Bitter gourd (karela) - 8 whole
• Shallots - 10 whole
• Ginger-garlic paste - 2 tsp
• Garam masala powder - 2 tsp
• Red chili powder - 2 tbsp
• Turmeric powder - 2 tsp
• Coriander powder - 1 tsp
• Jeera (cumin) powder - 1 tsp
• Asafoetida powder - 1/2 tsp
• Fennel seed powder - 1 tsp
• Curry leaves - 1 tsp
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. 1Combine the shallots, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, jeera (cumin) powder, asafoetida, fennel seed powder, and curry leaves in a grinder and pulse to form a coarse stuffing paste; set the paste aside.
2. 2Wash each bitter gourd and, using a knife, scrape away any tough outer skin; make a vertical slit along the length of each and carefully remove the seeds.
3. 3Rub salt over the outside and inside of each prepared bitter gourd and leave them for 30 minutes to help reduce the bitterness.
4. 4After 30 minutes, pat the bitter gourds dry with a clean towel or paper towel so the stuffing adheres well.
5. 5Spoon the spice paste into each slit, pressing it in so the cavity is well filled, then tie each stuffed bitter gourd with sewing thread to keep the filling secure.
6. 6Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat, add the stuffed bitter gourds carefully, cover with a lid, and cook both sides on medium flame for 5-10 minutes, turning gently so the skin softens and the stuffing heats through.
7. 7Remove the stuffed bitter gourds from the pan, take off the sewing thread before serving, and serve warm.
8. 8Optional: serve with steamed rice for a simple, comforting meal.