By Shreya Sarpal
July 29, 2025
Kakarakaya curry is a classic Andhra side dish known for its slightly bitter, spicy, and tangy taste. Rich in antioxidants and good for digestion, it pairs well with plain rice or chapati.
2 - 3 thinly sliced kakarakaya 2 tbsp oil ½ tsp mustard seeds ½ tsp cumin seeds 1 onion, chopped 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste ¼ tsp turmeric 1 tsp red chilli powder 1 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp jaggery (optional, to reduce bitterness) Salt to taste
Prep bitter gourd by thinly slicing, sprinkling salt, and setting aside for 15 - 20 mins, then squeezing to reduce bitterness.
Fry kakarakaya in 1 tbsp oil till slightly crispy and set aside.
In the same pan, heat more oil. Add mustard, cumin, then sauté onions and ginger-garlic paste.
Add turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, salt and mix it well.
Add fried kakarakaya, jaggery and cook for 5 - 7 minutes until flavours blend.