Paharkkai / Bittergourd Kuzhambu

                                   This can also be called Karakuzhambu. Chilly powder and Coriander
powder are enough and can be easily prepared and this goes well with plain rice and Dosais.Here only long size Paharkkais are mostly available in the stores.
                                                 

Paharkkai   /  Bittergourd Kuzhambu



Ingredients  :

Paharkkai                200 gms. ( 3 medium size )
Big onion                 1
Garlic                       5 pods
Tomato                    1
Tamarind                 1 lemon size
Chilly Powder          1 tsp.
Coriander Powder     1 tsp.
Salt,  Turmeric Powder, Oil, mustard, Urad Dhal
Grated coconut  (optional)     2 tbsp.

Method :

1. Slice the Paharkkai, tomato ,onion and the garlic.

2. Soak the tamarind in warm water and extract 3 cups of tamarind water.

3. Heat 1 tbsp. of oil, add mustard, urad dhal, curry leaves.When the mustards crack, add
    the onions and saute. Then add the tomatoes, little salt and saute till they shrink.

4. Add the sliced Paharkkai and saute till the paharkkai gets half cooked.

5. Add the chilly powder, corinder powder and turmeric powder and saute for 2 or 3mins.

6. Then add the tamarind water and salt and stir well. Let it boil.

7. When the Kuzhambu starts thickening, add the coconut and stir well.

8. Let it simmer for 5 mins.The tasty Paharkkai Kuzhambu is ready.

Note  :

1. Some people feel that seasoning with mustard and curry leaves in the end gives a
    rich aroma. So seaoning can also be done in the end.

2. Using coconut is purely optional.Coconut can also be reduced by adding Pottukadalai.

3. Onion and garlic can be avoided,if desired.