Teasel Gourd (Bhat Karela - ভাত কেৰেলা)

Teasel gourd, also known as bhat karela, is a tropical vine plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, closely related to bitter gourd and squash. It is native to South and Southeast Asia and is cultivated for its small, elongated fruits, which are prized for their unique flavor and culinary uses.
Teasel gourd gets its name from the distinctive spiny projections that cover its surface, resembling the bristles of a teasel plant. The fruits are usually harvested when they are young and tender, as they become increasingly bitter and tough as they mature.
The flavor of teasel gourd is mild and slightly bitter, with a texture that is firmer than that of bitter gourd but softer than that of a cucumber. The fruits can be cooked in various ways, including stir-frying, sautéing, boiling, or stuffing. Teasel gourd is commonly used in curries, soups, stews, and stir-fries in South Asian cuisines, particularly in dishes from India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
In addition to its culinary uses, teasel gourd is also valued for its medicinal properties in traditional medicine systems. It is believed to have various health benefits, including aiding digestion, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting weight loss.