Bitterly bold bitter gourd dishes to try out

April17,2025

Bitter gourds are slit and stuffed with a spicy, tangy masala mix of onions, spices, and sometimes even lentils. Fried or baked to perfection.

Stuffed Karela (Bharwa Karela)

Thinly sliced, seasoned with salt and turmeric, then deep-fried until crisp. A perfect crunchy snack or side dish.

Karela Chips

A classic Indian preparation with onions, spices, and sometimes potatoes to balance out the bitterness.

Karela Sabzi (Dry Stir-Fry)

A coconut-based curry from Kerala where karela is cooked with tamarind and roasted spices — deliciously complex in flavor

Karela Theeyal (Kerala-Style Curry)

Sliced bitter gourd stir-fried and finished with beaten eggs. A protein-rich twist that balances bitterness.

Karela Fry with Egg

A wholesome, comforting dish where bitter gourd is cooked with yellow lentils — mild, earthy, and nourishing.

Karela and Moong Dal Curry

Bitter gourd preserved with mustard seeds, fenugreek, turmeric, and oil. Perfect as an accompaniment to plain rice or parathas.

Karela Pickle

Detoxifying and surprisingly refreshing when paired with sweet or sour fruits like apples or Indian gooseberry.

Karela Juice with Apple or Amla

Crispy karela rings simmered in a spiced yogurt curry — the tang of the yogurt perfectly complements the bitter notes.

Karela Rings in Yogurt Gravy (Dahi Karela)