Stuffed bitter gourd recipe is a popular dish in many Asian cuisines, particularly in India and China. Known for its unique flavor and health benefits, this dish is made by hollowing out bitter gourds and filling them with a variety of spices and meats. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious taste and vibrant colors.
Bitter gourds, also known as karela in Hindi or momordica charantia in scientific terms, are known for their medicinal properties. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet. The bitter taste of the gourd is often balanced by the sweet and savory flavors of the stuffing, creating a mouthwatering dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
To prepare the stuffed bitter gourd recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4-5 bitter gourds
– 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of cooked rice
– 1/2 cup of grated coconut
– 1/2 cup of finely chopped onions
– 1/2 cup of finely chopped green chilies
– 1/4 cup of finely chopped garlic
– 1/4 cup of finely chopped ginger
– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons of oil
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this mouthwatering stuffed bitter gourd recipe:
1. Wash the bitter gourds thoroughly and cut off the ends. Make a horizontal slit on each gourd, but do not cut all the way through. Carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes from the inside of the gourds.
2. In a large bowl, mix the grated mozzarella cheese, cooked rice, grated coconut, finely chopped onions, green chilies, garlic, ginger, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Stuff the mixture into the hollowed-out bitter gourds, ensuring that each gourd is well-filled.
4. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the stuffed bitter gourds and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
5. Once the bitter gourds are cooked, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the gourds simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice and cheese are completely cooked.
6. Serve the stuffed bitter gourds hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice. Enjoy this flavorful and healthy dish as a side dish or as a main course with steamed rice or roti.
By following this stuffed bitter gourd recipe, you can easily create a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and provide numerous health benefits. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills!
