Bitter Gourd Pickle

Bittergourd (or Bitter melons) is a vegetables that is low in calorie but rich in many nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2 and B3, Vitamin C, magnesium, folic acid, zinc, phosphorus, manganes, iron, calcium, beta-carotene and has high dietary fiber.  a hypoglycemic effect called charantin. It also has polypeptide, an insulin like compound that is good for diabetic patients.

Ingredients: 

Bitter gourd – ½ kg

Oil 200 ml

Salt

Red chilli powder - 50 gms (or as per your requirement)

Green chillies – 3-4 cut into 3-4 pieces.

Garlic cloves – 8-10

Curry leaves few

Mustard seeds 1 tsp

Tamarind pulp – ¼ cup

Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp

Asafoetida – ¼ tsp.

Jaggery – 2 tbsp

Method 

1. Wash the bittergourd and pat dry it. Cut it into small pieces. Remove the seeds if they are hard.

2. Heat oil in a kadai. When it is hot, splutter the mustard seeds.

3. Add asafetida, curry leaves, green chillies, garlic and saute. 

4. Add the bittergourd pieces and sauté till it is soft. 

5. Add the turmeric powder, tamarind pulp, jaggery, salt and sauté again till the raw taste of the tamarind pulp goes.

6. Remove from the stove. Add the chilli powder and mix well. Keep aside to cool.