Introduction

Karela Piyaz is a traditional South Asian dish that transforms the naturally bitter taste of bitter gourd (Google Workspace in Pakistan as "Bitter Gourd Onion") into a delicious and flavorful meal. This simple yet wholesome dish combines the slight crunch of onions with the unique taste of karela, creating a healthy and satisfying dish. Whether you love karela or are trying it for the first time, this recipe will make you appreciate its taste in a whole new way.

Ingredients

To prepare a flavorful Karela Piyaz, you will need:

• 4 medium karela (bitter gourd), thinly sliced

• 2 large onions, finely sliced

• 2 tablespoons salt (for removing bitterness)

• 3 tablespoons cooking oil

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder

• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• ½ teaspoon garam masala

• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tomato, chopped (optional)

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Bitter Gourd

1. Wash the karela thoroughly and slice them thinly.

2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of salt over the slices and let them sit for 20–30 minutes to reduce bitterness.

3. Rinse the karela slices under running water and squeeze out excess moisture.

Step 2: Cooking the Dish

4. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.

5. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

6. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until fragrant.

7. Add the bitter gourd slices and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally.

8. Sprinkle red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt to taste. Mix well.

9. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes until the karela softens.

10. If using tomatoes, add them now and cook until they blend into the dish.

Step 3: Final Touch

11. Sprinkle garam masala and mix well.

12. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

13. Serve hot with roti or rice.

Tips for the Best Karela Piyaz

• Always soak karela in salt to minimize bitterness.

• Use fresh onions to balance the flavors.

• Adjust spices according to your preference.

• Adding a little yogurt can enhance the taste and texture.

Conclusion

Karela Piyaz is a nutritious and flavorful dish that proves bitter gourd can be incredibly delicious when cooked right. Packed with essential nutrients and bold flavors, this recipe is a must-try for those looking to enjoy healthy and traditional South Asian cuisine.