Gujarati Style Bitter gourd Fries / Bitter gourd Pakoda

Gujarati Style Bitter gourd Fries / Bitter gourd Pakoda 

   Whether it is lockdown period or not, chai time snacks are something everybody looks forward to . Pakoda is a favourite snack at home and onion pakoda tops the list. It is so simple to make with so little ingredients. 

   The word ‘Khalwas’ means ‘Finger Fries’. The bitter-hot-sweet-tangy taste of the khalwa is a flavour burst in the mouth and is quite addictive. I served it with Tamatar Ki Khatti Meethi Chutney ( Sweet Sour Tomato Chutney). 

Ingredients :

• 4-5 medium size bitter gourds ( de-seeded and cut into thin strips)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder ( adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon sugar or powdered jaggery
• 2 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 cup besan/chick pea flour 
• Salt to taste
• Oil to fry 

Method :

1. Rub salt into the thinly sliced bitter gourd and set it aside for fifteen minutes. 

2.  Squeeze juice of lemon over the bitter gourd.

3. In a bowl, add besan, spice powders, jaggery , salt ( adjust) and mix well.

4. Add the bitter gourd and mix well.

5.Heat oil in a kadai /small wok over medium flame.

6.When the oil heats up, drop a handful of the bitter gourd fingers.

7. Keep turning them until they become crisp and golden brown  8.Drain them in a kitchen towel. 

9.Repeat the same process for the remaining batch. 

Tip: To check if the oil is ready for deep frying, drop one bitter gourd finger into the oil. If it instantly sizzles, then the oil is ready for frying.

                                                                                                                                   EnjoyFood!