Ingredients:

• 500 gms lauki or dudhi ( bottle gourd)

• 1 cup split masoor dal ( orange dal )

• 2 chopped tomatoes

• 1/4 tsp asefodita

• 1 tsp jeera (cumin seeds)

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp chilli powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1/2 tsp garam masala

• 1/2 tsp jeera (cumin ) powder

• salt as per taste

• 1 chopped green chilli

• 1 tsp chopped ginger

• some chopped coriander leaves for garnishing

Method:

1. Clean, wash and soak the masoor dal in one cup water.

2. Peel, wash and chop the lauki in to small cubes.

3. Take a pressure cooker heat 2-3 tbsp ghee, add the asefodita and jeera when it splutters add the turmeric, ginger , green chill and chopped tomatoes. Cook on low flame till it is soft. Then add all the other dry spices leaving out the garam masala and mix well. Add the chopped lauki , salt, dal along with the water and 2 more cups water. Mix and close the lid of the cooker.

4. Cook upto 3-4 whistles.Open the cooker once the steam is released. Add the garam masala and water only if required.

5. Remove in a serving bowl and garnish with coriander leaves.

   Serve this healthy dal with chapati or plain rice.