Despite its slightly warty appearance, Karela comes packed with vitamin and mineral goodness. Valued for its high fibre content, Karela also contains vitamin C, proteins, calcium, beta-carotene, iron, potassium, zinc and phosphorus.
Bitter Melon, AKA Bitter Gourd, can be incorporated into many a South Asian dish, from curries topped with grated coconut, to deep fried with onions and spices as an accompaniment.
Karela can also be juiced to reduce blood sugar levels— containing polypeptide P, bitter melon acts as a natural insulin, favourable for a diabetic diet.
- Also known as Korola, Karavila, Karle, Paagarkaai, Pavakai and Tite Karela
- Recipes featuring Karela include Thoran/Thuvaran, Pavakka Mezhukkupuratti, Kattu Pagarkkai, Sabzi Karela and Bharwa Karela
