“Stuffed Karela Recipe | Easy Bharwa Karela with Step-by-Step Guide”

Bharwa Karela Recipe (Stuffed Bitter Gourd)

Bharwa Karela, also known as Stuffed Bitter Gourd, is a traditional North Indian dish that balances the natural bitterness of karela with a flavorful stuffing made from onions, spices, and tangy amchur (dry mango powder). This dish is loved in many Indian households and is especially popular as a side dish with roti or dal-chawal.

While karela is often avoided for its bitter taste, this recipe transforms it into a delicious, nutritious dish packed with health benefits.

Ingredients (for 6–8 karela)

• 6–8 medium karela (bitter gourds)

• 2 medium onions (finely chopped)

• 2 tbsp oil (for cooking masala)

• 2 tbsp oil (for shallow frying karela)

• 1 tsp fennel seeds (saunf)

• 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)

• 1 tsp coriander powder (dhania)

• 1 tsp red chili powder (lal mirch)

• ½ tsp turmeric powder (haldi)

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp amchur (dry mango powder) OR 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp salt (adjust as per taste)

• Kitchen thread (for tying)

Preparation Steps

Step 1 – Prepping the Karela

1. Wash karela, scrape lightly, and slit lengthwise.

2. Remove seeds (keep some if you like crunch).

3. Rub salt inside & outside, rest for 30 mins → reduces bitterness.

4. Wash thoroughly and pat dry.

Step 2 – Make the Stuffing

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan.

2. Add fennel & cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

3. Add onions, fry till golden brown.

4. Add turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, salt, and amchur.

5. Cook 2–3 mins till masala is aromatic.

6. Switch off flame and let it cool.

Step 3 – Stuff the Karela

1. Fill masala into each karela.

2. Tie with thread to keep filling secure.

Step 4 – Cooking the Stuffed Karela

Option 1: Pan Fry

• Heat 2 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan.

• Place karelas side by side, cover, and cook on low flame.

• Turn occasionally till all sides are evenly cooked & slightly crispy.

Option 2: Oven Bake (Healthier)

• Preheat oven to 180°C.

• Brush karelas with oil and bake for 20–25 mins, turning once.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with roti, paratha, or dal-rice.

• Can also be eaten with plain curd or raita for balance.

• Stays fresh in fridge for 2–3 days.

Variations

• Besan stuffing → Add roasted gram flour with spices instead of onion.

• Dry masala → Use only powdered spices with amchur for a dry stuffing.

• South Indian style → Add grated coconut, peanuts, and curry leaves.

• Stuff with minced meat (keema) → Popular in Mughlai style cooking.

Tips to Reduce Bitterness

1. Scraping skin and salting method helps.

2. Use amchur, lemon juice, or tamarind pulp in masala to balance flavors.

3. Smaller karelas are naturally less bitter.

Nutritional Value (per serving ~2 karela)

• Calories: ~120 kcal

• Carbs: 12g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 7g

• Rich in Vitamin C, fiber, iron, and antioxidants.

• Helps in blood sugar control, making it good for diabetics.

Why Try Bharwa Karela?

• Healthy & Nutritious – Bitter gourd is rich in Vitamin C, iron, and dietary fiber.

• Diabetic Friendly – Karela helps regulate blood sugar levels.

• Traditional Taste – Brings authentic flavors of North Indian kitchens.

• Meal-Friendly – Pairs well with chapati, paratha, and rice.

• Make Ahead Dish – Stays fresh for 2–3 days in the fridge, great for lunchboxes.

Recipe Variations

• Besan Stuffing – Add roasted gram flour (besan) to spices for a dry masala.

• Dry Masala – Skip onions, use only powdered spices + amchur.

• South Indian Style – Add grated coconut, curry leaves, and peanuts.

• Non-Veg Version – Stuff karela with spiced minced meat (keema)

Bharwa Karela is not just a recipe but also a healing food in Ayurveda. It improves digestion, controls sugar levels, and detoxifies the body.