Broiled Bitter gourd (Pavarkai Varuval)

Schools have started the roads are clogged, the office has full attendance more or less now that every one is back from vacation and the day light hours are decreasing and the sad realization that relaxed summer days are almost over. One nice thing about summer is the fresh veggies from the garden. The Bitter Gourds have never disappointed me. This week I got about 6-8 of two different varieties one is dark green and other one lighter close to white. Remember Poori Aunty, this recipes is again thanks to her. Quick and easy and extremely tasty. I invariably tend to make tamarind based curries when cooking bitter gourd but this one is really a great way to cook bitter gourds.

Ingredients 1. 6-8 Medium sized Bitter Gourds, Cut into rounds and remove the seeds. 2. 3/4 Red Onions Sliced 3. 4 Green Chillies cut into 2 (if not adding sambhar or chilli powder) 4. 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 5. 1 tsp amchur powder 6. 1/2 tsp turmeric powder 7. 2 tsp of sambhar powder or chilli powder 8. Salt to taste 9. Oil Method 1. In a pan heat oil and season with the cumin seeds 2. Add the onions and Bitter Gourd, saute a little bit 3. Add the Green Chillies if doing so, close the lid and cook till the bitter gourd is almost cooked. 4. Open the lid, add the powders and mix, saute for a few more minutes. Turn off the heat. 5. Set the Oven to Broil setting, spread the bitter gourd mixture on a baking sheet 6. Place in the oven and mix them around to avoid burning. 7. Switch off when the desired crispness is reached. I like it slightly soft and not completely crispy. Serve as a side or as a snack, the bitterness is hardly noticeable.