Karela(Bitter Melon) Chat

Karela or bitter gourd, the name itself has bitter in it and this is one vegetable that will be either loved or hated :) by the crowd. Thankfully, I fall in the 'Love' category. Its health benefits and unique taste makes it up for everything. I can eat it fried, in curry, pickle or in stuffed version, it absolutely tastes gorgeous. Only way I can't consume it, is in its juice form :) Hope people switch to eating karela who don't. Here is a simple and quick recipe of this side dish.

Karela Chat

Ingredients:

• 4 medium size karela
• 2 tbsp oil (or less)
• 1/2 lime juice
• 1 tsp chat masala *
• 1 medium size red onion chopped
• cilantro for garnish
• 1 tbsp grated coconut(optional) for garnish
• salt to taste 

Preparation:

• Cut the karela into thin roundels and wash, rinse, pat dry and apply some salt, keep aside for few minutes.
• Heat oil in a wide bottom non-stick pan, add karela roundels and let it cook on med heat with no cover. Keep turning sides in between, let them cook till they look crispy and cooked.
• Transfer it in a bowl, add lime, chat masala, cilantro, coconut, onions. Mix well and its ready to eat. 

      * chat masala =  jeera powder, black pepper powder, salt,  little black salt,  amchur powder.

Njoy!!

Nutrition Facts: One of the best diet vegetables for diabetes. The insulin-like peptides, alkaloids, and charantin combine to lower blood and urine sugar levels without increasing blood insulin levels. It has blood purifying properties and is beneficial for people suffering from piles. Helps with the metabolism, strengthens the immune system, cures many skin related issues like eczema, helps women in their menstrual disorders, fights chronic fatigue etc. Too many benefits, you just cannot ignore this gift :)