This unusual yet popular combination from Karachi is a comfort favourite beyond borders.
The astringent notes of bitter gourd, combined with the warmth of minced meat, Karely Qeema is packed with nutrition and an interesting mix of flavours.
Kareli Qeema
Ingredients
- Mince Mutton – 750 grams
- Onion – 2 large (thinly sliced)
- Tomato – 1 (finely chopped)
- Ginger garlic paste – 1 tbsp
- Bitter gourd (Karela) – 3 (peeled & deseeded)
- Green chillies – 3 to 4
- Red chilli powder – ½ tsp
- Cumin powder – 1 tsp
- Cumin roast – 1 tsp
- Coriander powder – 1½ tbsp
- Garam masala – ½ tsp
- Turmeric powder – ½ tsp
- Red crushed chilli – 1 tsp
- Paprika powder – 1 tbsp
- Cloves – 3
- Black pepper – 4 to 5
- Cardamom – 3 to 4 (for a rich taste)
- Salt to taste
- Oil
Method:
- Prepare the Karela (bitter gourd)
This is the best & easy method to reduce the bitterness of Karelas. First peel the Karelas with the help of a peeler then deseed and slice them. Sprinkle 1 tbsp of salt and rub it thoroughly. Leave it in the freezer for 1 hour and then rinse it with running water. - In a large cooking pan, heat oil, add the onions and fry for 4-5 minutes.
- Add cloves, black pepper corn, cinnamon stick and cardamom and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add ginger garlic paste, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add the minced meat and cook until the colour changes.
- Add all the spices and salt and mix well.
- Cook on high flame, then add the tomatoes.
- When you see oil separate from the masala, add 1/2 cup water and cover the lid and cook on low flame for 20 minutes. Stir in between.
- Bhunofy (cook) the Qeema until onions and tomatoes dissolve in masala.
- In another pan, fry the sliced onions, add the bitter gourd and fry until slightly brown and soft. This takes 6-8 minutes.
- Add fried Karelas and onions into the Qeema and mix well.
- Add a splash of water, cover the lid and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander & green chilies.
- Serve with naan.
Watch this recipe here – Kareli Qeema
Habiba khan is a food blogger from Karachi. Her passion for food and cooking led her to share her recipes and cooking tips. She loves exploring new ingredients and experimenting with different flavors, and is always on the lookout for fresh and exciting recipes to try out in her kitchen. She hopes to inspire others to embrace their love for food and have fun in the kitchen. She believes that whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, there’s always something new to learn about food!
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