Dodkyachi Bhaji/HeereKai Palya/Ridge Gourd

Known as 'Turiya' in Hindi.This has hard, vein like skin of which chutney can also be prepared.Te taste of this vegetable is pretty unique,little sweet. The selection of this vegetable while buying is important.Press the bottom end and it should be pressed easily.If you find the bottom hard, do not buy it.One more thing before making the sabji is, some times this gourd is bitter in taste.So to check if it is good or not, cut the both ends of about one inch and taste it.If you feel both sides taste sweet, then go ahead and prepare the sabji as following :)

 

The below measurements serve around 4 people.

Ingredients :

1. Ridge Gourd - 2 ,cut into about 1 inch size  pieces.
2. Masala paste - 2 Cups
3. Oil - 4 Table spoon
4. Mustard seeds and Cumin seeds - 1 Table spoon each
5. Hing and Turmeric Powder - 1 Tea Spoon each
6. Salt to Taste.

Steps :

• In a pan, heat the oil on medium flame.After oil becomes hot, add Mustard and Cumin Seeds,Hing and Turmeric.
• To this tadka, add the Masala paste.Fry it till you see the masala leaving the oil.
• Masala already had salt in it.So add the salt, only if needed.
• To this add the cut Ridge Gourd, fry all together for another 5-7 minutes.
• Now add around 6 cups of water and let it boil with lid closed for 10-12 minutes.
• Check the ridge gourd.When you see that the Gourd is cooked well, take out the lid and let the sabji boil so that excess water is evaporated.
• When you see that the gravy has attained the consistency you want,put off the flame.
• It is ready to serve with chapati,Roti,Rice etc

TIPS:

• Do not put flame on high as this might over burn the masala.