Qeema Karelay can well be the ideal meal for you if you want to liven up your dinner schedule with something somewhat unique! Many South Asian homes consider this delicious combination of spiced minced meat (qeema) and somewhat bitter gourd (karela) to be essential. The meat’s richness is complemented by the distinctive taste of karela, therefore creating that ideal mix of flavours. Besides, it’s nutrient-dense, which makes it not only delicious but also healthy. This meal will become a favourite regardless of your level of experience with South Asian food or your newness. Allow us to explore the mouthwatering universe of Qeema Karelay.
Ingredients For Qeema Karelay Recipe:
For the Qeema (Minced Meat):
- 500 grams of minced meat (beef preferred)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 green chillies, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons oil
For the Karelay (Bitter Gourd):
- 4-5 medium bitter gourds (karelay)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for soaking)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for soaking)
Preparation Of Qeema Karelay Recipe:
Step 1: Preparing the Bitter Gourds:
- Thoroughly wash the bitter gourds and remove their coarse outer skin. For this, you need to use a peeler or a spoon.
- Cut each bitter gourd lengthwise, then pour the seeds out.
- Slice the bitter gourds thinly.
- Over the bitter gourd slices, scatter salt and turmeric powder; then, well, mix together. Set it aside for at least half an hour; it will lessen the intensity and bitterness. .
- Rinse the bitter gourd slices with running water after 30 minutes to eliminate extra salt and bitterness. Get the extra water squeezed out and put aside.
Step 2: Preparing the qeema:
- In a big pan set over medium heat, warm oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few brief seconds.
- Add the finely chopped onions; sauté until they become golden brown.
- Add green chillies and ginger-garlic paste, Sear, for a few minutes until the raw ginger-garlic scent vanishes.
- Add the diced tomatoes; simmer until the masala softens and the oil begins to separate from it.
- Add salt, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chilli powder and mix them all thoroughly.
- To the pan add the minced meat. Cook on medium heat, tossing now and again, until the meat browns and cooks thoroughly.
- Over the cooked minced beef, sprinkle garam masala; then, thoroughly combine.
Step 3: Preparing the Karelay:
- Heat a small quantity of oil in a different pan, then add the slices of bitter gourds.
- Fry the bitter gourds till they turn somewhat crunchy and golden brown. This technique gives the meal a good texture and helps to further lessen the bitterness.
Step 4: combining Karelay and Qeema:
- Combine the cooked qeme and karelay in one pan after they are done.
- After well mixing, let them simmer on low heat for roughly ten to fifteen minutes to enable the flavours to blend together.
- Taste and, if necessary, change the seasoning.
Serving:
Qeema Karelay is best served hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. To counter the spiciness of the dish, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve alongside yoghurt or raita.Tips for the Best Qeema Karelay:
- Reducing the bitterness of the bitter gourd depends on soaking it in salt and turmeric. To cut even more the bitterness, some people blanch the slices in hot water before frying.
- Meat Choice: This dish calls for any minced meat. Traditionally, beef and lamb are possibilities; yet, chicken or turkey also go great.
- Your heat tolerance will determine how many green chillies and red chilli powder you should use. The food should strike a decent balance between taste and heat.
- Before adding the minced meat, make sure the tomatoes are soft and totally cooked. This gives the qeema a rich and delicious basis.
Nutritional Benefits:
Qeema Karelay is healthy as well as great in taste. Among its health advantages, bitter gourds are well-known for helping to reduce blood sugar levels, aid digestion, and strengthen the immune system. This dish is a good and balanced lunch since minced meat offers protein and other important components.
Qeema Karelay Full Recipe Video
Faqs
Add salt and turmeric to a bitter gourd to help it taste better; let it sit for half an hour. Rinse it completely, then, using water, squeeze away the extra liquid. Before putting the bitter gourd slices into use in the recipe, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes.
Any minced meat—beef, lamb, chicken, or turkey—will work great in this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you are using.
Although the classic recipe calls just for minced pork and bitter gourds, you could try adding other veggies like potatoes, peas, or bell peppers to give the meal variation and taste.
A nutritious meal, Qeema Karelay is really. The health advantages of bitter gourds are well-known: they help digestion and reduce blood sugar levels. Protein and vital minerals abound in minced meat.
