This tiny bitter gourd Kasara kaya (in Telugu) is not a common vegetable in India. It is called momordica cymbalaria in English and available only in certain regions of Andhra Pradesh like Rayalaseema areas.This guard is about 1/4th “in length and the curry / fry prepared with this vegetable is very healthy and tasty. It has got many health benefits. They are also a little bitter in taste but those who love normal bitter gourd will surely love this curry too. It is one of the best diabetic friendly recipes.
Ingredients:
Kasarakaya – 300gms,
Onion – 1 medium, sliced fine,
Red chilli powder – 3/4th tsp,
Haldi – 1/8 tsp,
Salt,
Dhania powder – 1tablesp,
Fried Channa Dal powder – 2tablesp,
Oil – 2 tablesp,
Mustard seeds – 1/4 tsp,
Jeera – 1/4 tsp,
Urad dal – 1tsp,
Peeled and crushed garlic cloves – 6,
Curry leaves – few,
Chopped coriander leaves – 1tablesp,
Desiccated / fresh coconut gratings – 2 tablesp,
Method:
1).Wash and nip off ends of kasarakaya .Boil some water in a Kadai and put the vegetable in it along with little salt. Keep it covered for 2to 3 minutes.After 3 minutes drain off the water and keep them in a plate.
2).Heat oil in the same Kadai, add mustard seeds,urad dal,garlic,curry leaves, fry till mustard crackles and the dal changes colour.
3).Add onion pieces and fry till they become soft. Add dhania powder,haldi, gourds, little salt, chilli powder and mix well.
4).Keep the Kadai covered and cook the curry till the vegetable becomes soft and well fried. If necessary sprinkle few drops of water. Stir once or twice.
5).When the curry becomes dry, sprinkle coconut and Channa Dal powders.Mix well and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.Remove from fire.
6).Serve with rice preparations break fast items like chspathi/poori etc.
Tip:
a).You can skip off the first step of putting them in boiling water for some time if you desire. But I prefer to do it as it gives some softness to the tiny body of the gourd and removes little bitterness.
b).You can use white til powder in place of fried dal powder.