Ashgourd - Chana Dal / Kumbalanga - Kadalaparippu Kootu

Ingredients:

1/2 cup chana dal / kadalaparippu

2 cups ashgourd / kumbalanga, cut into small cubes

3 green chillies, slit

1/3 tsp turmeric powder

1/2 cup + 2 tbsp grated coconut

3/4 tsp chilli powder

1/2 tsp cumin seeds

salt to taste

1/2 tsp mustard seeds

2 -3 dry red chillies

1 sprig curry leaves

2 tsp oil

Preparation:

1. Wash and soak chana dal in water for 5-6 hours.
2. Grind grated coconut with chilli powder and cumin seeds adding little water and keep it aside.
3. Add chana dal in a pan and cook it adding little water till soft, do not mash it.
4. In a thick bottomed pan, add ashgourd pieces, green chillies, turmeric powder and salt and cook covered adding little water till soft.
5. Then add the cooked chana dal and mix well.
6. Add the ground coconut paste and allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes on low flame. Adjust the salt and switch off the flame.
7. Heat oil in a pan and splutter mustard seeds. Add dry red chillies, curry leaves and 2 tbsp grated coconut and fry till brown.
8. Add this to the curry and mix well. Switch off the flame and serve as a side dish...