Hagalkayi palya

Hagalkayi palya/ Bittergourd Stir Fry made from one of the most hated veggies, bittergourd. Bittergourd dish has a special taste, a combination of sweet, tangy, spicy, and a light touch of bitterness. Tastes awesome with hot rice and dal.

INGREDIENTS:

1 hagalkayi / bittergourd

1 cup coconut gratings

Chickpea-size tamarind

4 to 5 dry byadgi red chillies roasted in a little oil.

4 to 5 garlic cloves

2 tbsp oil

1 tsp mustard

A few curry leaves

Salt to taste, Jaggery to taste (optional)

PROCEDURE:

• was and slightly scrape the outer skin of the bittergourd, cut the ends, and chop into thin slices.

• Apply 1 tsp salt and keep aside for 30 mins. After 30 minutes, wash well and squeeze out all the water from it, and deep fry the chopped bitter gourd pieces.

• Grind coconut with tamarind, roasted red chilies,s, and garlic cloves..

• Grind into semi-coarse masala, adding a little water.

• Heat a pan and add oil. Put mustard, when it crackles, add curry leaves and the masala.

• Fry for 2 minutes and add the fried bittergourd pieces. Check the salt and add if required.

• Add the jaggery if you are using. Cook for 5 minutes and turn off the flame.

• Serve with steamed rice and dal.