Bitter Spiny Gourd Vegetable: Spiny gourd (Momordica dioica), commonly known as kantola, kakrol or kankoda, is a seasonal vegetable that has started appearing in the markets of Bharatpur, Rajasthan, during the monsoon. Locally known as bitter kakora, this small wild vegetable is available for only a short period and is attracting buyers despite its bitter taste.

The Bitter Vegetable in Bharatpur: Spiny gourd (Momordica dioica) is a seasonal vegetable found in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, during the monsoon. Locally called bitter kakora, it is smaller than regular kakora and is recognised for its distinct appearance and naturally bitter flavour.

The Bitter Vegetable in Bharatpur: Spiny gourd (Momordica dioica) is a seasonal vegetable found in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, during the monsoon. Locally called bitter kankoda, it is smaller than regular kankoda and is recognised for its distinct appearance and naturally bitter flavour. (Image: Pexels)

Why This Vegetable Is Available Briefly: Unlike vegetables sold throughout the year, bitter kakora appears in markets for only a short season. Its limited arrival increases demand among local consumers, who often look forward to the monsoon months to buy and prepare this traditional vegetable.

Why This Vegetable Is Available Briefly: Unlike vegetables sold throughout the year, bitter kankoda appears in markets for only a short season. Its limited arrival increases demand among local consumers, who often look forward to the monsoon months to buy and prepare this traditional vegetable. (Image: File Photo/News18 Hindi)

Bitter Taste, Distinctive Preparation: Bitter kakora has a naturally bitter taste, but its flavour changes considerably after cooking. It is commonly cleaned, chopped and prepared with onions, oil and spices. These ingredients help balance the bitterness while adding flavour to the dish.

Bitter Taste, Distinctive Preparation: Bitter kankoda has a naturally bitter taste, but its flavour changes considerably after cooking. It is commonly cleaned, chopped and prepared with onions, oil and spices. These ingredients help balance the bitterness while adding flavour to the dish. (Image: File Photo/News18 Hindi)

What Ayurveda Says About It: Dr Chandraprakash Dixit of the Government Ayurveda and Yoga Naturopathy College said bitter kakora is also known as wild kakora. According to him, it may support digestion and has traditionally been associated with maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

What Ayurveda Says About It: Dr Chandraprakash Dixit from the Government Ayurveda and Yoga Naturopathy College, Bharatpur, said bitter kankoda is also known as wild kankoda. According to him, it may support digestion and has traditionally been associated with maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. (Image: File Photo/News18 Hindi)

Traditionally Used for Skin Health: Bitter kakora has also been traditionally used in connection with skin health. Dr Dixit said its properties may be beneficial for certain skin-related conditions. In rural areas, the vegetable has also been included in various traditional home remedies.

Traditionally Used for Skin Health: Bitter kankoda has also been traditionally used in connection with skin health. Dr Dixit said its properties may be beneficial for certain skin-related conditions. In rural areas, the vegetable has also been included in various traditional home remedies. (Image: File Photo/News18 Hindi)

Limited Supply Drives Local Demand: Vegetable sellers in Bharatpur say demand rises when bitter kakora reaches the market. Although its bitter taste may not appeal to everyone, buyers continue to purchase it because of its seasonal nature and the health benefits traditionally associated with the vegetable.

Limited Supply Drives Local Demand: Vegetable sellers in Bharatpur say demand rises when bitter kankoda reaches the market. Although its bitter taste may not appeal to everyone, buyers continue to purchase it because of its seasonal nature and the health benefits traditionally associated with the vegetable. (Image: File Photo/News18 Hindi)

A Monsoon Favourite in Rajasthan: The arrival of bitter kakora marks a brief seasonal window for consumers in Bharatpur. Despite its limited availability and bitter flavour, the vegetable remains popular when cooked with spices. Many locals wait for its arrival to enjoy it during the monsoon.

A Monsoon Favourite in Rajasthan: The arrival of bitter kankoda marks a brief seasonal window for consumers in Bharatpur. Despite its limited availability and bitter flavour, the vegetable remains popular when cooked with spices. Many locals wait for its arrival to enjoy it during the monsoon. (Image: File Photo/News18 Hindi)