Bitter Gourd Sweet Pachadi is my go-to recipe when I want to make something special yet healthy. The magic happens when bitter gourd meets sweet jaggery, creating a wonderful balance of flavors. I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who had a knack for making even bitter gourd lovers out of skeptics.
About the Recipe
This recipe transforms the often-avoided bitter gourd into something truly special. The cooking process reduces the bitterness while the jaggery adds sweetness. Fresh coconut brings richness, while the blend of spices creates layers of flavor. It’s a great way to include bitter gourd in your diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Simple ingredients you can find easily
– Ready in just 30 minutes
– Perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
– Great way to enjoy bitter gourd’s health benefits
– Stays fresh for a day
– Goes well with several Indian dishes
Bitter Gourd Sweet Pachadi
Cooking Tips
– Choose young, dark green bitter gourds for less bitterness
– Don’t skip the jaggery – it’s key to balancing flavors
– Cook on medium heat to prevent burning
– Stir frequently after adding jaggery
– Fresh coconut works better than dried
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-6 people. Total prep and cooking time: 30 minutes. Serve warm with rice, idli, or dosa. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before serving.
Similar Recipes
- Sweet Mango Pachadi
- Pineapple Pachadi
- Mixed Vegetable Pachadi
Nutrient Benefits
Bitter gourd is packed with vitamins C and A, fiber, and antioxidants. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and boosts immunity. The combination with jaggery adds iron, while coconut provides healthy fats and fiber.
Bitter Gourd Sweet Pachadi
Ingredients
- 250 gms Bitter Gourd (chopped)
- 2 Onions (small, finely chopped)
- 1/2 Coconut (grated)
- 1 1/2 tbsp Oil
- 2 tbsp Sambar Onions (Shallots - finely chopped)
- 1 Tomato (finely chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic (chopped)
- 1/3 cup Jaggery
- Salt as per taste
- Mustard Seeds (little)
- 1/2 to 1 tsp Green Chillies (chopped)
- Coriander Leaves (handful, chopped)
- Turmeric Powder (a pinch)
- Red Chilli Powder (little)
- Cumin Powder (little)
- Garam Masala Powder (little)
- Coriander Powder (little)
Instructions
- Heat little oil in a pan.
- Saute the bitter gourds for a minute or two and remove.
- Keep aside.
- Add the remaining oil to the pan.
- Fry the mustard seeds for 10 seconds.
- Add green chillies, sambar onions, onions, tomatoes, garlic, coriander leaves, salt and stir to mix well.
- Cook for 2 to 4 minutes.
- Add the masala powders and a little water.
- After a minute add the reserved bitter gourds.
- Cook for 15 minutes and add jaggery.
- Keep stirring for a few minutes to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- Add coconut and remove from flame.
- Mix well.
- Serve with idli, dosa or rice.
- Stays good for a day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reduce the bitterness of bitter gourd?
Yes. Sprinkle salt on chopped bitter gourd, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse well. This helps reduce bitterness. Also, using young bitter gourds naturally means less bitterness.
Can I use sugar instead of jaggery?
While sugar works, jaggery is better as it adds depth of flavor and nutrients. If using sugar, start with less and adjust to taste.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted. Reduce or increase green chilies and red chili powder based on your preference. The sweetness balances the heat nicely.
