Ivy Gourd Stir Fry

Ivy gourd (Kovakkai/Dhondakkai) is so good for our health. There are capsules which contain Ivy gourd extract available in US. Why to go for the capsule if we are very well getting the fresh ones. It helps in regulating the blood sugar level and therefore recommended for diabetic patients. Somehow I was avoiding it in my kitchen as I didn't get a good recipe out of it. One day I came across this wonderful recipe in a TV program. Thank you Chef Dhamodaran!!!

Preparation Time : 10 mins. Cook Time : 15 mins. Serves : 2

Ingredients :
1/4 kg of Ivy Gourd apprx
1/2 onion
1 stand curry leaves (optional)
1/2 the lemon size of tamarind
1 teaspoon of red chilly powder
1 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/4 teaspoon of cumin powder
Salt to taste

For Seasoning :
1 tablespoon oil
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds

Preparation :
1. Soak the tamarind in water for 5 mins and extract the juice. If you are using a ready to mix tamarind concentrate, then 1/2 teaspoon of the same can be used.
2. Wash the Ivy gourd well. Cut it into half and then cut both the halves into 2; So, each one should be cut into 4 vertical slices.
3. Chop the onion

Method :
1. Heat the Non-stick pan, Add oil and the fennel seeds. Saute it, then add the onion and curry leaves. Saute it well until the onion turns translucent.
2. Add the Ivy gourd, Salt, Chilly powder, coriander powder and Cumin powder. Stir it well and close with the lid. Cook for 10 mins and stir it in between.
3. Add the tamarind juice and cook for 5 mins. If is not yet cooked, Cook for some more time.

It is a good companion for Sambar,Rasam and curd rice.

Note :
1. I have used a Non-stick pan for this recipe. So, if you have one better use that.
2. When buying Ivy gourd, buy the ones which are young and tender. The tough ones take more time to get cooked.

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