
kovakkai
Also known as:
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Also known as:
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central

A simple and delicious South Indian stir-fry made with ivy gourd, sautéed until tender-crisp and seasoned with aromatic spices. This classic side dish, also known as Tindora Fry, pairs perfectly with rice and sambar or rasam.

A simple, delicious South Indian stir-fry featuring ivy gourd cooked with aromatic spices. This crispy and flavorful dish, also known as Tindora Fry, is a perfect side for rice and sambar, and it comes together in under 40 minutes.

A simple and delicious South Indian stir-fry made with ivy gourd, aromatic spices, and a hint of coconut. This classic poriyal is a perfect side dish for sambar rice or rasam, offering a delightful crunch and savory flavor.

A simple and delicious South Indian stir-fry made with ivy gourd, cooked with aromatic spices until tender and slightly crisp. Known as 'Dondakaya Fry' or 'Kovakkai Poriyal', this dish is a perfect and quick side for rice and sambar.
Yes, kovakkai (ivy gourd) is considered very healthy. It's low in calories and rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion. It also contains beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A, and antioxidants that support overall well-being.
Per 100g, kovakkai is very low in calories, providing only about 18 calories. It contains approximately 1.2g of protein, 3.1g of carbohydrates, and a negligible 0.1g of fat, making it a nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetable.
Kovakkai is often recommended for diabetics due to its potential anti-diabetic properties. Studies suggest it may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a beneficial addition to a diabetic-friendly diet, though it should complement, not replace, medical treatment.
Yes, kovakkai is a vegetable and is naturally suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets. It's a plant-based food that can be incorporated into a wide variety of meat-free dishes.
Yes, kovakkai is naturally gluten-free. As a fresh vegetable, it does not contain any gluten, making it a safe and healthy option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
With only 3.1g of carbohydrates per 100g, kovakkai is considered a low-carb vegetable. It can be included in moderation in a ketogenic diet, contributing essential nutrients without significantly impacting carb intake.
Kovakkai is versatile and commonly used in South Asian cuisine. It's often sliced and stir-fried, added to curries, or deep-fried to make crispy chips. It can also be sautéed with spices or incorporated into sambar and other vegetable stews.
kovakkai is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 18 calories per 100g and 1.2 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the vegetable category with complete nutrition information.
View all vegetable →Kovakkai has a mild, slightly bitter taste, especially when raw. When cooked, its flavor mellows, becoming subtly sweet and earthy. It has a firm, crunchy texture similar to a cucumber or zucchini.
To store fresh kovakkai, place it in a perforated plastic bag or a breathable container in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. It typically stays fresh for about 5-7 days when stored properly.
While kovakkai can technically be eaten raw, it is more commonly consumed cooked. Raw kovakkai has a slightly more bitter taste and firmer texture. Cooking helps to soften it and mellow its flavor, making it more palatable for most dishes.