These quick pickled bitter gourds are refreshingly delicious and tangy. Adjust the chilies to your taste and serve with your favorite rice or flatbreads.
Course Preserves
Cuisine Indian
Keyword Bitter Gourd Pickle, Vegan
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Resting time 20 minutesminutes
Author Syama
Ingredients
3CBitter gourd sliced
3Green chilies
2TbspGingersliced
5ClovesGarlicoptional
1Stalk Curry leavesoptional
½TspFenugreek seeds
½TspMustard seeds
¼CGingelly oil / Vegetable oil
¼CVinegar
2 - 3Tbsp Saltuse as needed
Instructions
Wash and pat dry the bitter gourd/s. Slice lengthwise and remove the seeds. Slice into ¼ inch thick pieces. Sprinkle 2 tbsp of salt on top of the slices, toss and set aside for 20 to 30 minutes.
Press the bitter gourd slices gently by hand to remove the juices. Use a strainer to help if needed. Save the slices.
Heat oil in a non-reactive thick bottomed pan ( Indian kadai or a saute pan or wok). When hot add mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds. When it splutters, add curry leaves (if using), sliced ginger, garlic (if using), and green chilies. Let the spices fry for a minute. Add the bitter gourd to this mix well. Cover the pan and let it cook for 5 to 8 minutes over medium heat.
Check the vegetables. It should be just softened, if not cover and cook for a few more minutes . Add turmeric powder and mix. Mix in the vinegar and taste. Add more salt if needed.
Turn off the heat and let it cool. The pickle can be used immediately, but tastes better after a few hours.
Bottle and refrigerate for upto 2 weeks.
Notes
Gingelly oil is sesame oil
Adjust chilies to your taste. When left whole the flavors of the chili infuses the pickle without making it spicy hot