SNAKE GOURD WITH PINK LENTILS

Snake gourd is a member of the pumpkin family. It is a powerhouse of nutrients, vitamins & minerals and also known as Padwal. This is a very healthy and tasty dish made with a combination of snake gourd and pink lentil /masoor dal .

Serves: 2 - 3

INGREDIENTS

• 750 gms of tender snake gourd, scrape the peel,

• 3/4 cup lentils washed.

• 1/2 medium onion sliced

• 1/4 tsp cumin seeds

• 1/4 tsp mustard seeds.

• 1-2 green chillies

• 1/2 tsp chilli powder

• 1/4 tsp cumin powder.

• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder

• 1/2 tsp salt or to taste.

• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves.

• 2 tbsp oil.

METHOD

1. Divide the snake gourd into 2 parts lengthwise, remove the seeds and cut into 1/4 inch slices. Wash well in running water.

2. Heat oil in a wok, add the cumin and mustard seeds, let it splutter.

3. Add the half sliced onions and fry till transparent.

4. Add the chilli pd, turmeric pd, cumin pd and salt.

5. Add the lentils.

6. Stir fry.

7. Now add the half sliced gourd.

8. Cover and cook on low heat.

9. The gourd releases water, so it should cook in that otherwise just sprinkle water from time to time.

10. Add green chillies and half the coriander leaves.

11. Remove and pour into a serving bowl.

12. Garnish with the rest of the coriander leaves.

13. Serve hot with rice or chapatis as a side dish.