Pavakka Theeyal Recipe - Spicy & Tangy Karela In Tamarind Gravy

Step 1: To begin making the Pavakka Theeyal recipe, firstly cut the bitter gourds into semi circles and soak them in required salt water

Step 2: After 15 minutes, squeeze the bitter gourds and keep it aside

Step 3: The next step is to make the masala for Bitter Gourd curry

Step 4: Add coconut, coriander seeds and dry red chillies into a heavy bottomed pan and dry roast till the coconut turns dark brown

Step 5: Then reduce the flame and add turmeric, fenugreek seeds, peppercorns and curry leaves

Step 6: Let it cook for 1 more minute

Step 7: After a minute, add coconut oil and switch off the heat

Step 8: Add this gravy mixture into a grinder, add a little water and grind it into a smooth paste

Step 9: Heat some more oil the same pan and add the cut bitter gourd

Step 10: Stir fry them till the bitter gourd roundels become crispy

Step 11: Once the bitter gourd becomes crispy, add onions and cook them till they turn soft and brown

Step 12: Add the grounded curry paste, tamarind juice, jaggery and 1-1/2 cups water

Step 13: Mix everything properly

Step 14: Add salt in the curry and let it cook for about 5 to 6 minutes

Step 15: Once it is ready, switch off the heat

Step 16: Next, to make the tadka for curry, heat oil in a tadka pan

Step 17: When the oil is hot, add mustard seeds, curry leaves and dry red chillies

Step 18: Let it cook for about 30 seconds and add it to the curry

Step 19: Give it a mix and it is ready to be served

Step 20: Serve Pavakka Theeyal along with Palak Raita and Phulka for a weekday lunch with your family

Step 21: You can also pack it in your Lunch box

Step 22: You could also serve it along with Steamed rice, Snake Gourd Thoran Recipe (Turai Thoran) and drink a glass of Spiced Butter Milk With Coriander And Ginger Recipe with the meal