Kakarakaya Podi, also known as Bitter Gourd Powder, is a nutritious and flavorful spice blend that enhances meals with its unique taste and health benefits. Made from dried bitter gourd (kakarakaya), spices, and lentils, this podi is a great way to incorporate the goodness of bitter gourd into your diet without its intense bitterness. In this blog, we will explore its benefits, nutritional value, a simple recipe, and more!
Health Benefits of Kakarakaya Podi
Regulates Blood Sugar – Bitter gourd is well-known for its ability to control blood sugar levels, making it ideal for diabetics.
Aids Digestion – The fiber content in bitter gourd promotes better digestion and gut health.
Boosts Immunity – Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it strengthens the immune system.
Supports Weight Loss – Low in calories and high in fiber, it helps in weight management.
Liver Detoxification – Helps in cleansing the liver and improving overall liver function.
Nutritional Value of Kakarakaya Podi
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per 100 grams of Kakarakaya Podi:
Calories: 200-250 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Protein: 8-10g
Fiber: 10-12g
Vitamin C: 30-40mg
Iron: 2-3mg
Calcium: 50-60mg
How to Make Kakarakaya Podi at Home
Ingredients:
1 cup dried bitter gourd slices
2 tablespoons chana dal (Bengal gram)
2 tablespoons urad dal (black gram)
3-4 dried red chilies
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon jaggery (optional, to balance bitterness)
1 teaspoon oil (for roasting)
Method:
Dry roast the dried bitter gourd slices until they turn crisp.
In the same pan, heat a teaspoon of oil and roast chana dal, urad dal, red chilies, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and sesame seeds until golden brown.
Allow the roasted ingredients to cool.
Blend everything together along with turmeric powder, salt, and jaggery into a coarse powder.
Store in an airtight container and enjoy with rice, idli, or dosa.
Kakarakaya Podi in Different Languages
Telugu: కాకరకాయ పొడి (Kakarakaya Podi)
Tamil: பாகற்காய் பொடி (Pavakkai Podi)
Kannada: ಹಾಗಲಕಾಯಿ ಪುಡಿ (Hagalakayi Pudi)
Hindi: करेला पाउडर (Karela Powder)
Malayalam: പാവയ്ക്ക പൊടി (Pavakka Podi)
Where to Buy Kakarakaya Podi?
Kakarakaya Podi is available in traditional Indian stores, organic shops, and online marketplaces. You can find homemade versions from local sellers or buy branded ones from specialty spice stores.
Conclusion
Kakarakaya Podi is a flavorful and health-boosting spice blend that brings the benefits of bitter gourd in a tasty and convenient way. Whether homemade or store-bought, it is a great addition to your pantry for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Try it today and enjoy its health benefits!