Pavakka Vella Achar / Bitter Gourd White Pickle

Ingredients:

1 medium bitter gourd / pavakka / kaipakka

8-10 big garlic cloves, chopped ( 2 tbsp)

5-6 big green chillies, chopped ( or 15-18 kanthari mulaku / birds eye chillies )

1 sprig curry leaves

1/4 tsp fenugreek powder

1/2 tsp asafoetida powder

1/4 tsp turmeric powder

salt to taste

3-4 tbsp vinegar, or as required

1/2 tsp mustard seeds

3 tbsp gingelly oil / sesame oil

Preparation:

1. Chop the bitter gourd into small pieces.
2. Heat gingelly oil in a pan and splutter mustard seeds. Add sliced garlic and saute till light golden.
3. Add birds eye chillies / green chillies, curry leaves and chopped bitter gourd and salt and mix well.
4. Then cook it covered for 5-7 minutes, stirring in between.
5. Add turmeric powder, fenugreek powder and asafoetida and mix well.
6. Add required vinegar, mix well and bring to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes and switch off the flame.
7. Cool completely and store in an airtight glass jar/ bharani...It tastes best after one day...