Dondakaya Vepudu (Ivy Gourd Fry)

Wash  250 gms of Ivy Gourds and cut out the tip and tail ends. Slit each of them into 3 lengthwise strips.

Heat a tbsp of Oil in a pan; splutter a tsp of Cumin Seeds, 3 dry Red Chillis, a pinch of Asafoetida and few Curry Leaves for a few seconds. Add the sliced dondakayalu and combine. Add Salt to taste, a pinch of Turmeric Powder; mix well and saute on medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Now reduce to low heat, add a finely sliced Onion and let it cook, approx 15-18 minutes (till they begin to have a wrinkled appearance and turn to a deeper color). Add 1¼ tbsps of Toasted Sesame Seeds; combine and let it cook uncovered for another minute and remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice.