Besan stuffed karela(bitter gourds)

Firstly, scrape the skin of bitter gourd and slit in the centre keeping it joined at the back.

With the help of knife scrape off the seeds.Place the bitter gourd into a plate

Sprinkle in 1 tbsp of salt and rub well rest for 30 minutes or until the bitterness is reduced.

Wash the bitter gourds nicely to remove the salt. Squeeze off the water and place them in a plate.

Stuffing :- Heat a pan and add to 1 tbsp oil to it. Once sufficiently hot add cumin seeds, Asafoetida, Fennel, ginger and kalunji after saute for a while add gram flour to it. Roast until it changes in colour.

Once roasted and ready, add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder, mango powder, garam masala and salt and sauté the spices. Turn off the flame and let the mixture cool.

Now open the bitter gourds and stuff it with the mixture. Press the gently and close it nicely,stuff all the gourds likewise.

To fry:- Heat a pan add 2 tbsp oil and 1/4 tsp cumin seeds. Place the gourds in oil for cooking. Reduce the flame, cover and cook for 7 to 8 minutes the check later.

Now flip the sides of bitter gourds and cook from all sides until they get brown in colour. Check the gourds after every 3 to 4 mins and roast from all sides.

Now stuffed bitter gourds (karela) is ready. Place in a plate and serve rice and roti.

Note:- These gourds can be kept outside for 2 to 3 days without a refrigerator.