Pavakka Theeyal - Tamil Nadu Style Bitter Gourd Curry

Directions

1. 1
   To begin making the Pavakka Theeyal recipe, firstly cut the bitter gourds into semi circles and soak them in required salt water. After 15 minutes, squeeze the bitter gourds and keep it aside.
2. 2
   The next step is to make the masala for Bitter Gourd curry.
3. 3
   Add coconut, coriander seeds and dry red chillies into a heavy bottomed pan and dry roast till the coconut turns dark brown.
4. 4
   Then reduce the flame and add turmeric, fenugreek seeds, peppercorns and curry leaves.
5. 5
   Let it cook for 1 more minute.
6. 6
   After a minute, add coconut oil and switch off the heat.
7. 7
   Add this gravy mixture into a grinder, add a little water and grind it into a smoothe paste.
8. 8
   Heat some more oil the same pan and add the cut bitter gourd. Fry them till the bitter gourd roundels become crispy. Once the bitter gourd becomes crispy, add onions and cook them till they turn soft and brown.
9. 9
   Add the grounded curry paste, tamarind juice, jaggery and 1-1/2 cups water.
10. 10
    Mix everything properly.
11. 11
    Add salt in the curry and let it cook for about 5 to 6 minutes. Once it is ready, switch off the heat.
12. 12
    Next, to make the tadka for curry, heat oil in a tadka pan. When the oil is hot, add mustard seeds, curry leaves and dry red chillies.
13. 13
    Let it cook for about 30 seconds and add it to the curry. Give it a mix and it is ready to be served.
14. 14
    Serve Pavakka Theeyal along with Palak Raita and Phulka for a weekday lunch with your family. You can also pack it in your Lunch box.