Bitter Gourd Kottu is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the goodness of bitter gourd with the aromatic flavours of spices. This South Asian favourite is not only easy to make but also a great way to incorporate the health benefits of bitter gourd into your diet. It also adds the unique flavour of bitter gourd to your meals. Here is the step-by-step recipe to prepare a delicious Bitter Gourd Kottu at home. Experiment with the spice levels to suit your taste, and enjoy a homemade, wholesome dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients Required:
2 medium-sized bitter gourds
2 cups shredded cabbage
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
2 green chillies, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1-inch ginger, grated
1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (optional for non-vegetarian version)
3 cups paratha or roti, chopped into small pieces
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chilli powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons oil
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving
How To Make:
1. Prepare Bitter Gourd
Wash the bitter gourds thoroughly and remove the seeds. Slice them into thin rounds or semi-circles.
2. Saute Bitter Gourd
In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bitter gourd and sauté until they are slightly tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add chopped onions, green chillies, garlic, and ginger. Saute until the onions turn golden brown.
4. Spice it Up
Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well to combine the spices with the vegetables.
5. Combine Ingredients
Add the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and cooked chicken (if using) to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Add Bitter Gourd and Roti
Incorporate the sauteed bitter gourd back into the pan. Add the chopped paratha or roti pieces. Mix everything well, ensuring that the roti absorbs the flavours.
7. Garnish and Serve
Garnish the Bittergourd Kottu with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. The combination of textures and flavours will surely make this dish a family favourite.