Baked Bittergourd Masala

      Baked bittergourd masala , this time i tried with baked bitter gourds.Lessen my work n oil..I remember that my grandma use to add some smoked bittergourds(chutta pavakkai) to tamarind based gravy.so i too want to try with some baked one.This masala recipe is so easy ,simple n taste was so gud than my expectation.In this recipe i added amchur powder/dried mango powder..i like mild tangy karela.Do you hate bitter gourd?? I am sure after eating this recipe you wont...Me n my kids finished this bowl :) I gave them along with upma... I use to cook karela /bitter gourds twice in a week.Try this recipe and post your feedback

Nutritional Benefits of Bitter gourd: Regular consumption of bitter gourd juice has been proven to improve energy and stamina level.  Even sleeping patterns have been shown to be improved/stabilized.The high beta-carotene and other properties in bitter gourd makes it one of the finest vegetable-fruit that help alleviate eye problems and improving eyesight.Bitter gourd contains beneficial properties that cleanses the blood from toxinsThe bitter tonic properties of bitter gourd have made it effective as a blood purifier.


Ingredients

1. Bitter gourd/Karela   2 no.(thinly sliced)
2. Onion   1 big(finely chopped)
3. Tomato  1 big(finely chopped)
4. Chana dal   2 tsp
5. Mustard seeds    1/2 tsp
6. Cumin seeds   1/2 tsp
7. Curry leaves    few
8. Chilli powder    1 tsp
9. Coriander powder    1/2 tsp
10. Cumin powder   1/4 tsp
11. Amchur powder    1/4 tsp
12. Turmeric powder   a pinch
13. Salt    to taste
14. Oil   2 tsp
15. Cilantro    few finely chopped

Method

• Pre heat oven to 400 degree F.
• Take a oven safe vessel,spread the sliced bitter gourd and drizzle few drops of oil and a pinch of turmeric powder and bake it for 25-30 minutes or till till it turn crisp.
• Heat a oil in a pan,add mustard and cumin seeds allow to pop and add chana dal fry till light golden brown and add curry leaves and onions.
• Saute the onions nicely and add chopped tomatoes and fry nicely till it turn mushy.
• After that add all dry powders(chilli,coriander,amchor,cumin) and stir well and fry for 1 minute.
• Then add the baked bitter gourds and mix well,sprinkle little water and cook covered for 1-2 minutes.
• Lastly add some chopped cilantro and the baked bittergourd masala is ready.
• Serve as an accompaniment for rice,dosa,chapathi/roti etc.