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