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Karela (Bitter Gourd) & Moong Dal Curry

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A wholesome, protein-packed curry made with bitter gourd (karela) and yellow moong dal. This dish balances the natural bitterness of karela with mild spices and dal’s creamy texture, making it a diabetes-friendly meal.

prep time 15 Mins
cook time 25 Mins
chef Ankita Singh
Karela with Moong Dal

Karela (bitter gourd) is one of the most recommended vegetables for people managing diabetes. It contains compounds like charantin and polypeptide-p, which help regulate blood sugar levels. Combining karela with moong dal not only tones down its bitterness but also makes the dish rich in protein, fibre, and essential minerals.

This curry uses minimal oil and spices, keeping it light yet flavourful. The moong dal provides steady energy without spiking blood sugar, while karela adds antioxidants that support pancreatic health. Together, they form a nourishing dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner when paired with brown rice or multigrain rotis.

The recipe is mildly spiced, soft in texture, and easy to digest—making it suitable for regular diabetic meal planning. With its balance of taste and health benefits, this karela moong dal curry is both therapeutic and comforting.

Step 1

Wash moong dal thoroughly and soak for 15 minutes.

Soaking the Dal
Step 2

Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.

Heat Ghee and Spices
Step 3

Add onion, ginger, and green chilli. Sauté until golden.

Step 4

Add chopped karela and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cutting the Bitter Gourd
Step 5

Add tomato, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes soften.

Step 6

Add soaked dal with water. Mix well and bring to a boil.

Add Karela to Dal
Step 7

Lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until dal and karela are soft and cooked through.

Adding the tadka
Step 8

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

Karela with Moong Dal

Tips and Tricks

  • To reduce bitterness, lightly salt karela pieces and leave for 10 minutes, then rinse before cooking.
  • Use minimal oil to keep it heart and diabetes friendly.
  • Pairs best with brown rice, millet roti, or quinoa.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cook for 2 whistles on medium heat and let the pressure release naturally.

Use younger, smaller karela and deseed them. Pairing with tomato and dal balances the taste.

Yes, masoor dal works well too, but moong dal is lighter and more diabetic-friendly.

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