Pavakkai (Karela) Poriyal Recipe

step 1

• STEP 1.1 in a pressure cooker add 500 gms of deseeded bitter gourd (karela/ pavakkai) cut into small pieces. Add ½ tsp turmeric (haldi) powder, salt to taste and 2 tbsp water. Pressure cook for 3 whistles and allow the pressure to release naturally.

step 2

• STEP 2.2 in a preheated pan add 1 tsp oil, ½ tsp mustard seeds, 2 sprigs torn curry leaf, ¼ tsp asafoetida (hing), the cooked pavakkai, ½ tsp red chilli powder, ½ tsp sambar powder, 1 tsp amchur (dried mango) powder and 2 tbsp jaggery.

step 3

• STEP 3.3 stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cover and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on low to medium heat or cook open on high heat if a dry, crispy texture is desired. Check the salt and seasoning and adjust accordingly.

step 4

• STEP 4.4 add ¼ cup roughly pounded roasted peanuts. Add a small bunch of chopped coriander leaves. Stir together and turn off the heat. Serve hot with rasam and rice.