Dal - Ash Gourd / Parippu Kumbalanga Kuthi Kachiyathu

Ingredients:

1/2 cup toor dal

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1 cup ash gourd / kumbalanga, peeled and chopped

1 tomato, chopped

salt to taste

3 garlic cloves

10 shallots

1 tbsp chilli flakes, or as required

1 sprig curry leaves

1/2 tsp mustard seeds

1 1/2 tbsp coconut oil

Preparation:

1. Wash the toor dal and cook it in a pressure cooker adding turmeric powder, salt and enough water for 1 whistle.
2. Then add ash gourd pieces, tomato and water if required and cook for another 1 whistle.
3. Crush garlic cloves and shallots together and keep it aside.
4. Heat oil in a pan / clay pot and splutter mustard seeds.
5. Add crushed mixture and curry leaves and saute well.
6. Add chilli flakes into this and saute well till the raw smell disappears.
7. Then add cooked dal - ash gourd with gravy and mix well and boil well for 3-4 minutes.
8. Adjust the salt and switch off the flame and serve with rice...