Dondakaya Verusenaga Vepudu (Ivy Gourds peanuts fry)

Wash the 250 gm of Ivy Gourds / Dondakayalu and nip the tip and tail ends. Slit each into two, length wise and slice them into thin long strips.

In a pan, dry roast ¾ tsp of Cumin Seeds, 2 torn Red Chillies and 1½ of Peanuts for a few seconds stirring continuosly. Remove from heat and grind to make a coarse powder.

Heat 1½ tbsp of Oil in a pan and splutter ½ tsp of Mustard Seeds, 1 tsp of Channa Dal, 1 tsp of Urad Dal and few Curry Leaves. Immediately add the sliced dondakayalu, Salt to taste, a pinch of Turmeric Powder and combine. Saute on medium heat for 3-4 minutes,while stirring continously. Reduce to low heat and cover cook till soft, approximately 12-15 minutes. Add the ground coarse powder, combine well and let it cook uncovered for another 2 minutes on medium heat. Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice, dal or sambar.