Pavakka Theeyal / Bittergourd Theeyal

Theeyal is a delicious dish in Kerala. It has a rich distinct taste which makes it a distinct curry.
This recipe uses Pavakka or Bittergourd as the main ingredient.

INGREDIENTS:

• Sliced shallots(Pearl Onion) - 15 nos
• Slit Green Chilly- 4 nos
• BitterGourd / Pavakka- 1 Medium Size
• Grated Coconut- ½ cup
• Red Chilly Powder - 1½ tsp
• Coriander Powder- 1½ tsp
• Turmeric Powder-¼ tsp
• Fenugreek Powder- a pinch
• Tamarind - A gooseberry sized ball
• Water - 1/2 cup
• Curry Leaves - a few
• Salt to taste
• Oil - 2 tsp

PREPARATION METHOD:

• Heat 1 tsp of oil in a pan add Grated coconut and saute till brown.
• Add chilly powder and coriander powder and stir for a few minutes.
• Remove from fire and allow to cool.
• Grind it to a fine paste.
• Soak tamarind in ¼ cup of warm water and take the extract from it.
• Cut Bittergourd / Pavakka into small pieces.
• Heat remaining oil in a pan.
• Add sliced onions, Green Chilly and saute, till they turn golden brown colour.
• Add Pavakka and saute for another 3 minutes.
• Add turmeric Powder,salt and water,allow to cook.
• Add tamarind juice and allow to boil.
• Add coconut paste and let it to boil till the gravy thickens and oil seperates.
• Remove from the fire and add curry leaves.
• Sprinkle fenugreek powder and mix well.

Recommended Combination: Pavakka / Bittergourd Theeyal can be served hot with Rice.