Spicy Bitter Gourds Ismaili Style

Ingredients:

• 4-5 unripe bitter gourds / kerala
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds
• 1 medium onion
• 2 garlic cloves; minced
• 1 inch ginger; grated
• 2 green chillies; minced
• 2 medium tomatoes; blanched, peeled
• 1/4 tbsp turmeric
• 1 tbsp coriander / cumin powders

Method:

1. Scrap the kerala / bitter gourds, and slice into 1/4 inch half circles.  Discard the ripe ones (with red seeds).  Or remove the seeds.  The seed in unripe kerala are tender.
2. Soak in salty water for at least 30 minutes
3. Heat the oil, and fry the cumin seeds, until they swell up, add the onion, fry until golden brown.
4. Add the garlic, ginger and chilli paste, mix and fry.
5. Add the bitter gourd and stir for about 5 minutes
6. Add the tomatoes, stir and cook for 5 minutes, add the turmeric, coriander and cumin powders, mix, reduce the heat and cook for about 20 minutes or until the bitter gourd is cooked.