Kuvale Sasam (Ashgourd Curry)

Kuvale means Ash gourd in Konkani. Sasam means mustard seeds. This dish is prepared by cooking ash gourd in a coconut based masala and the masala contains mustard seeds. Hence it is called Kuvale Sasam. This dish has a very distinct taste and also ash gourd has many medicinal values. Many people also drink juice of ash gourd which helps in weight loss.You can know more about Ash gourd here.

Ingredients:

• Small Ash gourd (Kuvale/Kumblakaayi) - 500g
• Grated coconut (fresh/frozen)- 3/4 cup
• Roasted red chilli- 5
• Tamarind- A small ball (gooseberry sized)
• Mustard seeds- 1+1 tsp
• Oil- 2 Tbsp
• Curry leaves- Few
• Salt- To taste

Procedure:

Remove the peel of Ash gourd and cut into small pieces.

Cook it in a cooker with sufficient water and salt in it (I took 2-3 whistles). Let it cool. Meanwhile prepare the masala. Grind the grated coconut, roasted red chillies, tamarind along with 1 tsp of mustard till it becomes a smooth paste. Mustard seeds gives it a different flavor. Add little water as required. Don’t make it too watery. Now the masala is ready. Just add this masala to the cooked ash gourd and bring it to a boil. Let it cook until the rawness of the masala goes (5 minutes would be enough after it comes to a boil).The consistency of the curry should be such that it’s not too thick or too watery. Turn off the heat.

For the seasoning, heat oil. Then add 1 tsp of mustard seeds. After it starts spluttering, add curry leaves and turn off the heat. Add this to the curry and mix well. Kuvale Sasam is ready!

This goes well with white rice.You can also have it with rotis. Above measurement is for serving three people. This is a mild dish. If you want it spicier then you can increase the number of red chillies according to your requirement.