Paavakka Thoran / Kaarathe Sukke (Bitter gourd with coconut)

Paavakka Thoran / Kaarathe Sukke (Bitter gourd with coconut)

A side dish with rice

Serves: 2

You will need

2 teaspoon oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon jeera(cumin seeds)
1/2 teaspoon urad dal
1 onion, finely chopped (optional)
2 bitter gourd (medium size), cut into small cubes
1 cup (100 ml) water
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For coconut mixture:

3 tablespoon grated coconut
3/4 teaspoon red chilli powder
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

Mix above ingredients well and keep aside.

Method

In a microwave safe bowl, microwave bitter gourd cubes with 1 cup (100 ml) water for 4 minutes (750W).

Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds. When they crackle, add jeera and urad dal. Saute for 1 minute. Add chopped onion (optional) and fry till golden color. Onion will enhance the taste.

Add microwaved bitter gourd, coconut mixture and salt to taste. Mix all the ingredients well. Cover with a lid and cook on a low to medium heat for 12 - 15 minutes or until the water dries up / bitter gourd well combined with coconut mixture. Serve as a side dish with rice.

(You can also cook bitter gourd directly (without microwave). Then add 1 cup water (100 ml), coconut mixture, salt and cook until the water dries up. It may take 20 - 30 minutes).