Karelay Keema (Mince Beef with Bitter Gourd)

Ingredients:

1. Mince beef or mutton 1/2 kg.
2. Bitter gourd 1/2 kg.
3. Onions (sliced) 4
4. Tomatoes (chopped) 4-5
5. Ginger garlic paste 2 tbsp.
6. Green chilli paste 1 tbsp.
7. Salt 1 1/2 tsp.
8. Red chilli powder 1 1/2 tsp.
9. Coriander powder 1 1/2 tsp.
10. Turmeric powder 1/4 tsp.
11. Whole black pepper  5
12. Cloves 4
13. Black cardamom 1
14. Cinnamon 1 inch piece
15. Cumin seeds 1 tsp.
16. Oil 4 tbsp.
17. Fresh coriander for garnishing

Method:

• Scrape the surface of the bitter gourd to make them smooth.
• Deseed them.
• Chop bitter gourd in the required shape (either chopped into bits or circles).
• Soak the pieces in salted water for about 1 or 2 hrs.
• Drain off the water and wash them with fresh water.
• Heat oil in a pan.
• Add onions and fry till golden brown.
• Put ginger garlic paste, cloves, cinnamon, black cardamon and whole black pepper.
• Fry for few seconds.
• Add mince beef.
• Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.
• Add red chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, green chilli paste, salt and cumin seeds.
• Cook for another 4-5 minutes or till the water dries up.
• Add tomatoes.
• Cover and cook till the tomatoes are soft and oil separates.
• Now add Karelay (Bitter Gourd).
• Mix, cover and cook for another 20-25 minutes.
• Take out in a dish.
• Garnish with fresh coriander and serve.