Karele ke Pakode/ करेले के पकौड़े
Karele ke Pakode is Also Known as Karele ke Pakode
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About Karele Ke Pakode
Are you ready to try a snack that’s as healthy as it is delicious? Look no further than Karele ke Pakode! These crispy fritters made from bitter gourd are an absolute treat for your taste buds and a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for any time of the day. While bitter gourd might not be everyone's favorite, when turned into pakodes, it takes on a whole new, addictive flavor that will leave you wanting more. Imagine biting into a golden, crispy crust, with a hint of spice, only to be surprised by the tender, earthy bite of the karela inside. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures!
The best part? Karele ke Pakode are surprisingly versatile and can be customized to fit your own taste preferences. If you're not a fan of the slight bitterness of karela, you can soak the slices in saltwater for a while before cooking, which helps reduce the bitterness. Feeling adventurous? You can add a bit of chopped onions, garlic, or even green chilies to the batter to kick up the flavor profile! You could also experiment with spices like garam masala, amchur (dry mango powder), or chili flakes to create a unique twist that suits your palate.
Karele ke Pakode are perfect for any season, but they shine particularly during the monsoon season. The rainy weather calls for cozy, crunchy snacks that pair perfectly with a cup of chai, and what could be better than biting into a hot, crispy pakoda as you watch the rain outside? Even during the warmer months, you can enjoy these pakode as a refreshing, low-calorie snack that won’t weigh you down.
Now, let's talk about the health benefits! Bitter gourd, or karela, is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants. It’s well-known for its benefits to the digestive system and is a great aid in detoxifying the body. Karela is also recognized for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a great option for those with diabetes. When fried as pakode, the karela's natural bitterness is balanced by the crispy, savory batter, making it not only a healthy snack but also a truly satisfying one!
What’s more, these pakode are low in calories and perfect for those who are watching their weight. When made with minimal oil, you can enjoy them without any guilt. They’re also gluten-free (when made with gram flour) and can be easily made vegan, depending on your preference. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or simply snacking on them with friends, Karele ke Pakode are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
So, why wait? Add Karele ke Pakode to your next meal plan and treat yourself to something both crispy and nutritious! Not only will you be indulging in a delightful snack, but you’ll also be nourishing your body with the goodness of bitter gourd. The next time you’re craving something unique, healthy, and full of flavor, reach for Karele ke Pakode and experience the magic of this traditional Indian snack!
Recipe of Home Cooked Karele Ke Pakode/ करेले के पकौड़े
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for making Karele ke Pakode at Home.
Prepare the Bitter Gourd: Start by washing and slicing the bitter gourd into thin rounds. Remove the seeds if preferred. Lightly salt the slices and set them aside to rest for about 10 minutes to reduce the bitterness. (Time taken: 10 minutes)
Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, rice flour, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, carom seeds, and a pinch of baking soda. Add water slowly to form a thick, smooth batter that can coat the bitter gourd slices. Add salt to taste. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Coat the Bitter Gourd: Once the gourd slices have softened and the bitterness is reduced, dip each slice into the prepared batter, ensuring they are fully coated. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or kadhai, heat enough oil to deep fry the pakodas. The oil should be hot but not smoking—test by dropping a small amount of batter to see if it rises quickly. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Fry the Pakode: Carefully drop the battered bitter gourd slices into the hot oil. Fry them in batches until golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Once done, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. (Time taken: 10-15 minutes)
Serve Hot: Serve your crispy karele ke pakode hot, paired with your favorite chutney or a cup of chai for the perfect snack! (Time taken: 1 minute)
Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes