Paharkai Pitlai / Bitter Gourd Gravy – Tamilnadu Style Recipe

Paharkai Pitlai, also known as Bitter Gourd Gravy, is a traditional South Indian dish that originates from Tamil Nadu. This dish is made with bitter gourd, lentils, coconut, tamarind, and a blend of spices. Despite its name, Paharkai Pitlai is not actually bitter, thanks to the use of tamarind and coconut. In Tamil Nadu, Paharkai Pitlai is often served as a side dish with rice, along with other traditional South Indian dishes. This dish is not only delicious but also has many health benefits, as bitter gourd is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Let’s learn how to make this flavorful and nutritious Paharkai Pitlai.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium-sized bitter gourds
  • 1/2 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
  • 1/4 cup grated coconut
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
  • 3-4 dried red chilies
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed

Instructions:

  1. Wash the bitter gourds and slice them thinly. Remove the seeds and keep the slices aside.
  2. Wash the toor dal and pressure cook with enough water until it becomes soft.
  3. In a pan, heat the oil and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, dried red chilies, coriander seeds, and asafoetida.
  4. Once the spices start to splutter, add the sliced bitter gourd and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked toor dal, grated coconut, tamarind pulp, and salt to the pan.
  6. Add enough water to make a thick gravy, and mix well.
  7. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the bitter gourd is cooked and the gravy thickens.
  8. Turn off the heat and transfer the Paharkai Pitlai to a serving bowl.
  9. Serve hot with steamed rice and other traditional South Indian dishes.

Paharkai Pitlai, also known as Bitter Gourd Gravy, is a traditional South Indian dish that originates from Tamil Nadu. This dish is made with bitter gourd, lentils, coconut, tamarind, and a blend of spices. Despite its name, Paharkai Pitlai is not actually bitter, thanks to the use of tamarind and coconut. This dish is not only delicious but also has many health benefits, as bitter gourd is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In Tamil Nadu, Paharkai Pitlai is often served as a side dish with rice, along with other traditional South Indian dishes. So, why not try this flavorful and nutritious Paharkai Pitlai recipe and enjoy the delicious taste and health benefits of this traditional South Indian dish!

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