Name: Uchche Bhaja (Bitter Gourd Fry) recipe by Bethica Das at BetterButter
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 3
Ingredients: 2 medium size Karela (Bitter Gourd), chopped finely; 1 tsp. panch phoron; 2 whole dry red chilies, broken into two; 2 tbsp. mustard oil; 1/2 tsp. turmeric powder; salt to taste; 1 tsp. ghee or 1 tsp. kasundi / mustard paste (opt)

ABOUT Uchche Bhaja (Bitter Gourd Fry) RECIPE

This bitter preparation is a delicacy on a Bengali platter and is quite popular among the Bengalis. It is had at the beginning of any meal as it is considered to cleanse the system. It is simply fried on its own or potatoes can be added along with karela depending on individual choice and availability. Add kasundi paste if a more pungent flavour is desired. I prefer having it with ghee and hot steamed rice.

Ingredients Serving: 3

2 medium size Karela (Bitter Gourd), chopped finely
1 tsp. panch phoron
2 whole dry red chilies, broken into two
2 tbsp. mustard oil
1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
salt to taste
1 tsp. ghee or 1 tsp. kasundi / mustard paste (opt)

Instructions

Heat oil in a pan and temper with whole dry red chilies and panch phoron. After it stops spluttering, add the chopped karela, salt and turmeric powder and stir fry on low flame till done. (this will take some time, so be patient).
When done, add the kasundi, if using, and stir well to combine. Serve with hot steaming rice. If not using kasundi, then treat yourself to some ghee (clarified butter).

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