Karela Dishes That’ll Win Over Even the Harshest Critics

July10,2025

Karela is slit, deseeded, and stuffed with a spicy mix of onions, amchur, fennel seeds, and masalas—then pan-fried until golden. The bitterness is beautifully mellowed.

Stuffed Karela (Bharwan Karela)

Thinly sliced bitter gourd is tossed in salt and turmeric, deep-fried till crispy, and seasoned with chaat masala. Addictive and perfect with dal-chawal or as a tea-time snack.

Karela Chips

Sautéed karela rings tossed with roasted gram flour and spices make a crunchy, protein-packed side dish with a nutty bite.

Karela with Besan (Gram Flour Karela Fry)

A stir-fried North Indian classic where onions caramelize alongside karela slices, reducing bitterness and enhancing sweetness.

Karela Onion Stir-Fry (Pyaz Wali Karela)

Finely grated karela is kneaded into a spiced whole wheat dough and rolled into theplas—bitter, spicy, and utterly satisfying with yogurt or pickle.

Karela Thepla (Gujarati Style)

A comforting dry curry with potatoes and karela cooked with turmeric, coriander powder, and hing—this humble dish pairs perfectly with rotis.

Karela & Aloo Sabzi

Roasted karela blended with tamarind, garlic, curry leaves, and chilies into a tangy, spicy chutney. A bold accompaniment for idlis or rice.

Karela Chutney (South Indian Style)

A lip-smacking instant pickle made by marinating karela slices in mustard oil, spices, and vinegar. Keeps well and tastes better over time.

Bitter Gourd Pickle (Karela Achaar)