Bharwan Karela Bitter Gourd

10-12 small karela/bitter gourd
¾ tsp turmeric powder
¾ tsp red chili powder
¼ tsp Punjabi garam masala
1 tsp amchur powder
1 tsp fennel powder/saunf powder
2 medium sized onions, finely sliced
3 tbsp oil
few chopped coriander leaves for garnish – optional
salt as required

• Rinse and peel the karela.
• Make a vertical cut on each karela keeping the base intact.
• Remove the seeds and pith with your hands or scrape with a small spoon.
• Mix all the dry spice powders with salt.
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• Stuff the spice powder mix in the karela.
• Tie a thread tightly around each karela.
• Heat the oil and fry the karela in the oil till they are browned and cooked.
• In the same oil, add the sliced onions and fry them till they begin to brown.
• Add the karela and saute till they the onions become crisp and golden.
• Add the rest of the spice mix, if there is a left over.
• In case if you have added less salt in the spice mix, you can add them now.
• While serving remove the thread and serve garnished with chopped coriander leaves.
• Bharwan Karela is best had with some Rotis, Phulkas or as a side vegetable dish with dal-rice.