Kovakka Thoran | Ivy Gourd Stir Fry

We are on lent till Easter and so all vegetarian recipes are on high demand.I love eating hot steamed rice with a simple stir fry and a pickle too.Kovakka (Ivy gourd) stir fry or thoran is an example of one such simple healthy dish that can be served with steamed rice.Ivy gourd has many prominent health benefits,it helps regulate the blood sugar levels and in turn prevent or treats diabetes.It is also purpoted to reduce inflammation and therfore is beneficial to patients with asthma,cholesterol and constipation.Ivy gourds are rich in  Vitamin A and C.I frequently buy this vegetable from our Indian stores and make kovakka mezhukuparetti or this thoran recipe.Both are equally liked by my family.Give this a try and enjoy !!

Ingredients
kovakka /ivy gourd 1lb(460gm)
onion 1 small finely chopped or shallots 5-6 sliced
garlic sliced 2
green chillies 3 sliced
turmeric powder 1/2 tsp
chilly powder 1/4-1/2 tsp
grated coconut 1/2 cup
mustard seeds 1/2 tsp
curry leaves a sprig
salt to taste
oil 2tbsp

Method

• Wash and snap the ends of kovakka(ivy gourd).Cut the kovakka in quarters or chop small(refer notes)
• Heat oil in  a pan and splutter mustard seeds.Add curry leaves,onion,sliced garlic and green chillies,saute until translucent.Add a pinch of salt to speed up the process.
• Add the spice powders-turmeric powder,chilly powder.Saute until raw smell disappears.
• Transfer the chopped kovakka,add salt.Toss it well and add half cup water.Cover and cook for 5-6 mins on medium flame.
• Uncover lid,give a quick stir.Add in grated coconut,adjust salt and mix well.Cover and cook on low medium flame for 5-7mins or till done on low flame.Dry up any water or moisture left and switch off flame,leave covered for 10 mins.
• Serve warm with steamed rice !!

Serves ~5-6 adults

NOTES
* Apply oil in your palms,before cutting as this may leave stains at times,oiling helps prevent staining. OR Place the ivy gourds in water,each time dip your fingers in water when you pick up a fresh one,prevents staining.
* You can chop the ivy gourd or kovakka as per your preference.If its finely chopped then there is no need to add any water to cook.In that case,cook on low flame.

For more thoran(stir fry) recipes,click here.