Let's continue with our Tawa Veggie Series: Bitter Gourd Fries with Potato (Karela-Aloo Bhaja)! No deep frying. Less oil. More flavor!
Bring out the best of seasonal veggies with this earthy, crisp, and wholesome karela-aloo fry — all done on the humble **tawa** with just a touch of mustard oil.
Ingredients
* 4 medium bitter gourds (karela), peeled and thinly sliced
* 1 large potato, peeled and thinly sliced
* 1 tsp turmeric
* Salt to taste
* 1 tbsp mustard oil (I used *Gramiyaa wood-pressed mustard oil*)
* Black pepper to taste
* ½ tsp amchur (dry mango powder)
* Optional: 1 small onion and 3–4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Marinate the Karela
1. **Peel and slice the karela** thinly.
2. **Massage with salt and turmeric.** Let it sit for **30 minutes** at room temperature — this draws out the bitterness.
3. After resting, **wash thoroughly** and **squeeze out excess water.** Set aside.
Cooking on the Tawa
1. Heat a lohe ka tawa or iron griddle** on low flame.
2. Add **1 tbsp mustard oil** and spread it evenly.
3. **Place karela slices** on one side of the tawa and **arrange potato slices** beside them.
4. Cover and cook on **low heat for 5 minutes.**
5. Flip everything gently and **season with salt and pepper.**
6. Cover again and cook for **another 5–7 minutes**, flipping once or twice in between.
The potatoes will crisp up, and the karela, though still green, will be tender and flavorful.
Optional Add-On: Onion & Garlic
If desired, after tawa frying karela, add oil, sliced onion and garlic to the tawa. Cook them until golden and mix with karela for an extra punch.
Finish & Serve
* Sprinkle **amchur powder** just before taking it off the tawa.
* Serve hot with **chapati or dal-rice**.
* Pairs beautifully with a bowl of curd on the side.
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