Bitter gourd, or karela, is one veggie that is quite talked about for its distinct taste and flavour. It has a bitter taste and most people don’t relish the same. However, there is no denying the fact that bitter gourd is a powerhouse of various essential vitamins and minerals. It has a host of health benefiting properties that can possibly keep many diseases at bay. A lot of people like bitter gourd only in the form of bharwa karela (stuffed bitter gourd). If you happen to be one of those who’s afraid of having this wonder veggie due to its bitter taste, then here’s an easy solution for the same. Here’s a list of five easy tips that can come quite handy to you in removing the bitterness from bitter gourd.
1. Scrape Off The Rugged Surface
In order to reduce the bitterness from bitter gourd, the very first step is to scrape off the rugged surface from the top. With the help of a peeler, make the surface smooth.
Once you’re done scraping off the rugged surface, slice the bitter gourd and remove big seeds from it before using it for cooking. Doing so will keep the bitterness at bay to a considerable extent.
3. Use Salt
When it comes to removing bitterness from bitter gourd, salt can be of great help as it tends to draw out the bitter juices from it. All you have to do is to rub the sliced bits with lots of salt. Transfer the pieces in a bowl and allow it to stay for 20-30 minutes before cooking.
4. Squeeze The Juice
After applying salt on it, don’t forget to squeeze out the juice from the bitter gourd. Wash it under running water and squeeze again for better results.
5. Use Diluted Yogurt
To remove bitterness from bitter gourd, another way is to dilute bitter gourd pieces in diluted yogurt for at least an hour or so before use.
So, before you turn this veggie into a meal, don’t forget to remove the bitterness from the same.
[“source=food.ndtv”]