Bitter gourd
Bitter gourd or bitter melon, as it’s name is bitter. It is believed the small, the greener and the younger ones, are the most bitter and also contains the most nutrition.
This is known as Pavee Kai in Tamil and as Peria in Bahasa Malaysia. Not many know how to cook this and not surprisingly, not many know the nutrition value in this vegetable.
This is a vein plant and needs the trellis for support. The plant grows to about 5 feet. It has both the male and female yellow flower in the same plant. The ripe fruit become yellowish and the seed has a thin layer covering them which is red and this is surprisingly sweet…..
I love the way my Amma does it, cut into thin slices (round) not all the seeds are discarded. Marinate all in turmeric powder with little salt and deep fry (similar to potato chips) Taste yummy… For more wonderful recipes, please visit http://creativepooja.blogspot.com/2008/04/vow-bitter-gourd-round-up-and-voting.html
I and hubby also drink 1 small cup of bitter gourd juice once every 3 months. It is believed that bitter gourd has the hypoglycemic compound (a plant insulin) that is highly beneficial in lowering sugar levels in blood and urine. This helps to improve glucose tolerance without increasing blood insulin levels. Not that we are diabetic patients, but purely for health reasons.
However do not overdo and consume too much. Excessive consumption may cause mild abdominal pain or diarrhea. Diabetics patients, please consult your doctor.
Let’s go green
