Ash Gourd Thoran

Method

1. 1

   Prepare ash gourd: Peel 250g white ash gourd. Remove seeds and cut into small 1-cm cubes.

2. 2

   Make coconut mixture: Mix half cup freshly grated coconut with half tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, 2 green chillies and 3 shallots sliced.

3. 3

   Heat coconut oil: Heat 2 tbsp coconut oil in a wide pan.

4. 4

   Splutter mustard seeds: Add 1 tsp mustard seeds and cover until all pop.

5. 5

   Add aromatics: Add 2 dried red chillies and 2 sprigs curry leaves. Fry 20 seconds.

6. 6

   Add ash gourd: Add diced ash gourd. Season with salt and half tsp turmeric.

7. 7

   Cover and cook: Cover tightly and cook on low heat 8-10 minutes. Ash gourd releases water during cooking.

8. 8

   Dry out: Open and cook on high heat 3-4 minutes until all moisture evaporates.

9. 9

   Add coconut mixture: Add coconut mixture. Toss on high heat 2 minutes.

10. 10

    Serve: Ash gourd thoran is light and cooling. Serve with steamed rice as part of a Kerala sadhya.