Andhra Style Kakarakaya Vepudu Recipe - Bitter Gourd Stir Fry

Step 1: To begin making the Andhra Style Kakarakaya Vepudu Recipe, first cook the bitter gourd in a pressure cooker

Step 2: Place the bitter gourd in the pressure cooker along with yoghurt, 2 tablespoons water, turmeric powder and some salt

Step 3: Pressure cook until you hear just one whistle

Step 4: After the first whistle turn off the heat

Step 5: Open the pressure cooker once the pressure gets released (about 2 minutes) and keep the cooked Kakarakaya (bitter gourd) aside

Step 6: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or heavy bottomed pan over medium heat

Step 7: Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds and dry red chillies and allow them to crackle and roasted

Step 8: Once the chilies have roasted, add the sliced onion, garlic pods, curry leaves and sauté for 2 minutes until the onions have slightly softened

Step 9: Add the cooked Kakarakaya (bitter gourd) and stir fry over medium heat for 8-10 minutes till the bitter gourd pieces start to turn brown and cooked softer

Step 10: Once the Kakarakaya (bitter gourd) is cooked well, add the red chilli powder, amchur powder, jaggery and salt to taste

Step 11: Continue to stir for another 2 to 3 minutes

Step 12: Fry over high heat until you get a nice dark brown colour for 3 to 5 minutes

Step 13: Finally add finely chopped coriander, mix well and turn off the heat

Step 14: Serve the Andhra Style Kakarakaya Vepudu with hot rice and ghee (optional) or as a side dish for rice with Hyderabadi Khadi Masoor Ki Dal or Kerala Cheriya Ulli Sambar Recipe or Tomato Rasam

Step 15: It also pairs well with roti or parathas