Bitter Gourd Thoran

Method

1. 1

   Prepare bitter gourd: Wash 2-3 pavakka (bitter gourds). Halve, remove seeds and cut into thin half-rounds. Rub with salt and leave 15 minutes. Rinse well.

2. 2

   Make coconut mixture: Mix half cup freshly grated coconut with half tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, 2 green chillies, 3 shallots and 1 tsp jaggery.

3. 3

   Heat coconut oil: Heat 3 tbsp coconut oil (more oil helps with the bitterness).

4. 4

   Fry bitter gourd first: Add rinsed bitter gourd and fry on medium heat 6-8 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.

5. 5

   Add mustard seeds: Push bitter gourd aside. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds — cover until they pop.

6. 6

   Add aromatics: Add 2 dried red chillies and curry leaves. Fry 20 seconds.

7. 7

   Add coconut mixture: Add coconut mixture to the fried bitter gourd. Season with salt.

8. 8

   Toss together: Cook on medium heat 3-4 minutes until everything is well combined.

9. 9

   Final toss: Toss on high heat 1-2 minutes.

10. 10

    Serve: Bitter gourd thoran with jaggery has a pleasant bitter-sweet balance. Serve with rice.