Crispy & Spicy Tandoori Bitter Gourd Chips

Introduction

Indulge in the bold and fiery flavors of Spicy Tandoori Bitter Gourd Chips, a delightful Indian snack that packs a punch. Thinly sliced bitter gourd is marinated in a zesty blend of spices, then coated in a crispy batter for an addictive crunch. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a side dish, these chips are sure to tantalize your taste buds with every bite.

Equipment Needed

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Frying Pan

Ingredients

  • 1 large bitter gourd (30-35cm)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 5 tbsp corn starch
  • 2 tbsp flour (maida/rice flour/gluten-free flour)
  • 2 tbsp besan flour
  • Neutral oil for frying

Instructions

1. Preparation
  • Slice Bitter Gourd: Wash the bitter gourd and thinly slice it.
2. Marinate
  • Prepare Spice Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, curry powder, garam masala, chili powder, black pepper, and a pinch of hing (asafoetida) and salt. Mix until you get a crumbly texture.
  • Coat Bitter Gourd: Add the thinly sliced bitter gourd to the spice mix and mix well until evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the vegetable to release water.
  • Add Flours: After 10 minutes, add corn starch, your choice of flour (maida/rice flour/gluten-free flour), and besan flour to the marinated bitter gourd. Mix well using your hands until all slices are coated evenly.
3. Marination
  • Rest Time: Let the marinated bitter gourd mixture sit for at least 30 minutes, or marinate it overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
4. Frying
  • Heat Oil: Heat neutral oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
  • Fry Bitter Gourd: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated bitter gourd slices to the pan in batches. Fry until they turn crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
  • Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried bitter gourd chips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute wheat flour with rice flour to make the chips gluten-free.
  • Enjoyment: Serve the Spicy Tandoori Bitter Gourd Chips immediately for the best taste and texture.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Potassium: 300mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Vitamin A: 1500 IU
  • Vitamin C: 30 mg
  • Calcium: 50 mg
  • Iron: 2 mg

Tips for Perfect Chips

  1. Thin Slicing: Ensure the bitter gourd slices are thinly cut for uniform cooking and crispy texture.
  2. Even Coating: Coat each bitter gourd slice evenly with the spice mix and flour for consistent flavor and crunch.
  3. Marination Time: Allow the bitter gourd slices to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
  4. Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature for frying to achieve crispy chips without excessive oil absorption.
  5. Serve Hot: Enjoy the Spicy Tandoori Bitter Gourd Chips immediately after frying for the ultimate taste experience.