Lau diye Bhaja Muger Dal (Split Green Gram & Bottle Gourd Curry – Bengali style)

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup moong dal (split green gram), dry roasted
• 1 cup bottle gourd, cubed
• 2 tbsp mustard oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds / panch phoron
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1-2 bay leaves
• to taste salt
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tsp ghee
• 1 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped

Steps

1. Pressure cook the roasted moong dal along with 1 cup water, bottle gourd pieces and 1 tsp. oil for 4-5 whistles.
2. Heat remaining oil in a pan and temper with cumin seeds / panch phoron, asafoetida, bay leaves and ginger. Saute for a few seconds.
3. Add the boiled dal, slit green chilies and all the dry spices. Adjust water according to the consistency preferred. Bring it to a boil and simmer on a low flame for 2 minutes.
4. When done, switch off the flame. Add ghee and coriander leaves. Give it a stir and enjoy with either rice or chapati for a wholesome simple meal.