Ivy Gourd (Tindora) Stir Fry | Kovakka Mezhukuparetti

Week ends are precious for all..The same goes with my family too..We are also planning a long trip today which we had been planning since long ;along with friends and their families and so I'll miss most of your recipes these days,but will definitely come back and view all your posts.So,hope all my US friends have a joyful weekend too.
Today's recipe is a simple Ivy gourd stir fry.Ivy gourd / kovakka popularly known as tindora in the northern parts of India.They are known to grow well in India and Thailand.Ivy gourd has been classified as medicinal herb in traditional Thai and Ayurvedic medicine and the part used mainly in diabetics treatment is the leaves of the climber.

Ivy gourd (google image)

Ivy gourd is rich in protein and fibre.They also contain beta-carotene,a major vitamin A precursor from plant sources.We get these here in the Indian stores.I usually prepare the Ivy gourd thoran or the stir fry version.Both are equally good and simple to prepare.Today am sharing the stir fry version.

Ingredients
ivy gourd/kovakka 1 lb(500gms)
onion 1 small chopped(optional)
green chilli 4-6
curry leaves
turmeric powder 1/2 tsp
chilly powder 1/2 tsp (optional)
salt
oil 4tsp



Method

• Wash and cut the ivy gourd round slices,discarding the end portions.( apply oil in your palms ,before cutting as this may leave stains at times,oiling helps prevent staining OR Place the ivy gourd in water,dip your fingers in water when you pick up a fresh one each time,prevents staining.)
• Heat oil in a non stick pan and saute onion till light brown.Add green chillies and saute.
• Add turmeric powder and salt.
• Add the sliced ivy gourd,cover and cook for 5-7 minutes.
• Open the lid and toss the mix,adjust salt .
• Leave uncovered on medium heat and wait till the slices become a little crispy or light brown.
• Toss  again the whole mix and wait till majority of it has changed colour.
• Ivy gourd stir fry is ready to serve.

Servings ~ 4 adults

NOTES
*You can add the chilly powder  instead of green chillies.
*You can leave out the onion or can use shallots instead. I sometimes do leave out the onions and make without it, tastes good too.

Sending this to Any One Can cook event hosted by Umm Mymoonah