Moong Beans(Dal) Curry with Bottle Gourd

 For this recipe I am using frozen bottle gourd that I washed,peeled and cut into triangle or square shape then later freeze it in a zip lock bag since sometimes my husband buy extra vegetables that after  some while get spoiled. That's why I follow the above method when veggies can't be eaten immediately.You can use the fresh bottle gourd.

Moong beans is really good for health with lots of protein,fiber,vitamins,irons and minerals.

Prep Time:15 Minutes 
Cook time: 25 to 30 Minutes

Ingredients:

1 small to medium size bottle gourd
2 cups Moong Beans (Dal)
1/2  tsp turmeric powder
1/2  tsp cumin powder
1 tsp garlic powder or paste
1 tsp ginger powder or paste
1 medium size onion chopped
2-3 bay leaf
2 pnich of cardamom powder
2 tsp salt

4-5 green chili
1/4 cup cilantro
1/4 cup mustard oil or olive oil , don't use canola, its bad for health
6 to 8 cups of water

Directions:
Optional: For exotic flavor, you can fry the moong dal for 8 to 10 minutes over medium heat until beans look like little bit golden brown.

1.Rinse all the beans together for 3 to 4 times. .

2.In a hot saucepan,  fry onion with oil for 5 minutes over medium heat until onion gets golden brown.

2.Then add turmeric,garlic,ginger,salt and cumin powder.Saute for 5 minutes and then add moong beans and stir fry for 5 minutes then add  6 cups  of water

3.Then add bottle gourd .Mix everything properly.Cover the lid and cook it for 15 to 25 minutes at medium to low heat.

4.When everything gets tender or cooked ,add cilantro and green chili.Simmer for 2 more minutes.

Serve hot with rice.

Enjoy and have fun.