Keto Spicy Stir-Fried Bitter Gourd

Transform your keto meal plan with this flavor-packed Keto Spicy Stir-Fried Bitter Gourd, a tantalizing low-carb dish that turns the underrated bitter gourd into a culinary standout. Featuring the bold aromatics of garlic, ginger, and fresh red chili, this stir-fry is elevated with a perfectly balanced sauce of soy (or coconut aminos for gluten-free), rice vinegar, and a touch of keto-friendly erythritol for subtle sweetness. The bitterness of the gourd is tempered through a simple salting technique, while a hint of turmeric adds warmth and vibrant color. Cooked to golden perfection in coconut oil and finished with fresh cilantro, this quick and easy recipe—ready in under 30 minutes—is ideal as a standalone dish or paired with cauliflower rice for a nutrient-rich, ketogenic meal. Say goodbye to boring keto dinners and hello to bold, spicy satisfaction!

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized Bitter gourd (karela)
• 2 tablespoons Coconut oil
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 1 medium Fresh red chili
• 1 inch piece Ginger
• 1 tablespoon Soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon Rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Erythritol (or another keto sweetener like stevia)
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Wash the bitter gourds thoroughly, slice them in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and pith. Slice the bitter gourds into thin half-moons and sprinkle a pinch of salt over them. Let the slices sit for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness. Rinse well under water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2

Mince the garlic and ginger. Thinly slice the fresh red chili.

Step 3

In a medium-sized skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced chili to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced bitter gourds to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and develop a slight golden color.

Step 6

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), rice vinegar, erythritol, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the bitter gourds and stir well to coat evenly.

Step 7

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the bitter gourds to absorb the flavors and the liquid to slightly reduce.

Step 8

Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve immediately. This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a keto-friendly main or side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(283.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	325.5

Total Fat 28.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1485.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 19.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 6.8g	0%
Total Sugars 4.6g
Protein 4.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 68.1mg	0%
Iron 2.3mg	0%
Potassium 866.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 73.3%

Protein: 4.8%

Carbs: 21.9%