Ask any child what vegetable he dislikes most and he will tell you bitter gourd. Yes bitter gourd is the “love it or leave it” vegetable. But the benefits of bitter gourd are many as bitter gourds are very low in calories but dense with precious nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, B1, B2 and B3, C, Magnesium, folate, zinc, phosphorus, manganese and has high dietary fiber. It is rich in iron, contains twice the beta-carotene of broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach and twice the potassium of banana.
Nutrients Value of Bitter Gourd:
Bitter gourd contains a unique phyto-constituent that has been confirmed to have a hypoglycemic effect. There is also another insulin -like compound known as polypeptide P which have been suggested as insulin replacement in some diabetic patients.
Bitter gourd is a reliable medicinal herb and the benefits of bitter gourd are proven in many ways. It contains beneficial properties that cleanses the blood from toxins. It is adored by diabetes – afflicted individuals because it lowers blood sugar levels, served by mothers because of its iron overload, but scorned by children because of its bitter flavor.
Benefits of Bitter Gourd:
Blood Sugar Regulation: Studies have shown that bitter gourd help in lowering blood sugar level of diabetic patients significantly.
Weight Management: Bitter gourd is low in calories and high in fiber. It is an excellent choice for those who want reduce their body weight by taking bitter gourd juice in moderation.
Antioxidants Properties: The bitter gourd is rich in antioxidants which may play a crucial role in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
Recipe of bitter gourd:
Cook green bitter gourd instead of ripened ones. Besides, being bitter, ripened ones become soft and meshy when cooked.
The bitter gourd with eggs recipe is considered the simplest, easiest and most popular way to prepare it.
This article will show the recipe of bitter gourd with egg with minus bitter taste. Served in a happy, sweet and unbitter mood, this recipe is the best.
Steps:
- Wash the bitter gourd before slicing. Cut lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Slice as thinly as possible. (Do not wash bitter gourd after it has been sliced because the middle white part where the seeds pods reside produce a more bitter flavor when washed).
- Saute garlic, onions and tomatoes. Tomatoes mask the bitter flavor and at the same time moisten the bitter gourd.
- Add the bitter gourd and the beaten egg together so bitter gourd won’t be overcooked. Add salt to taste.
- Stir as little as possible to prevent squeezing out more of the bitter gourd’s bitter flavor.
- Do not add water. The bitter gourd will be cooked by its own moisture and that of the tomatoes simmer.
- The cooked bitter gourd should still appear green – not olive green or brownish green.
What is bitter gourd juice:
Bitter gourd juice is the extract obtained from the bitter gourd, scientifically known as Momordica charantia. This green, elongated fruit belongs to the gourd family and is widely cultivated in tropical regions provide exceptional benefits to your diet.
Benefits of bitter gourd juice:
Bitter gourd juice is a power house of Essential nutrients that can contribute significantly to your overall health. It is rich in vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin K as well as minerals such as iron, potassium and magnesium. Additionally bitter gourd juice is packed with antioxidants that help to combat oxidative stress and promote cell rejuvenation.
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How to prepare bitter gourd juice:
To prepare the bitter gourd juice at home, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients-
- 2 medium sized bitter gourds
- Water
- A pinch of salt
- Honey or lemon (optional to enhance taste)
Steps:
- Thoroughly wash bitter gourds with water. Slice them vertically and scoop out the seeds and pith using a spoon. Removing the seeds can help reduce the bitterness.
- Cut the deseeded bitter gourd into smaller pieces and add them to a blender. Add little water and blend until you get smooth consistency.
- Pour the blended mixture through a strainer to separate the juice from the pulp. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the taste or you can sweeten it with honey or a dash of lemon if you prefer. Stir well and serve the refreshing bitter gourd juice.
Precautions:
If you are new to bitter gourd juice, start with small quantities and gradually with a wholesome meal.
Conclusion:
It is obvious that bitter gourd recipe or bitter gourd juice may not be your favorite dish or not be your cup of tea everyday, but the benefits of bitter gourd are undoubtedly numerous. It will benefit you to managing blood sugar levels, boost your immunity and enhance the antioxidants levels. To adjust with the bitterness of this wonderous food item, you can start slowly and then add bitter gourd or bitter gourd juice to your diet in a regular basic to get most of the benefit from it. Remember, a little bitterness can bring the sweetness in your overall health.
