Bitter gourds (Karela)

Bitter cucumbers (Karela / Bitter Melon)

Bitter gourds – also known as karela or bitter melon – are elongated, green fruits with a distinctive, wrinkled surface and a characteristically bitter taste. They are particularly prized in Indian, Asian, and African cuisine. When cooked, the bitterness mellows, developing an aromatic, slightly earthy flavor. Ideal for curries, stir-fries, stuffed dishes, bhajis, sabzis, or for health purposes.

Nutritional values ​​per 100 g (approx.):

• Calories: approx. 16–20 kcal
• Carbohydrates: approx. 3–4 g
• Sugar: very low
• Dietary fiber: approx. 2 g
• Protein: approx. 1 g
• Fat: < 0.2 g
• Vitamin C: approx. 80 mg (very high)
• Vitamin A: moderate amounts
• Folic acid & B vitamins: in small to medium amounts
• Potassium: approx. 300 mg
• Magnesium and iron: present in small amounts