Parwal Aloo Bhaji — परवलाची भाजी

Ingredients

• 250g pointed gourd (parwal), sliced lengthwise
• 2 medium potatoes, sliced lengthwise
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste

Method

1. Scrape the skin of pointed gourds, wash, and slice them into thin wedges. Slice potatoes similarly.
2. Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin and mustard seeds, letting them crackle.
3. Add potatoes, parwal, and turmeric. Sauté for 3 minutes.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Cover and cook on low heat for 12-15 minutes until veggies are tender and slightly crispy. Serve hot with rotis.

Health Benefits

• Digestive Aid: Pointed gourd is highly fibrous and cooling, helping cleanse the digestive tract.
• Low Calorie: Ideal for weight loss diets due to low fat and high water content.

Summary

Parwal Aloo Bhaji is a comforting North Indian dry stir-fry. Sliced pointed gourd and potatoes cooked with everyday spices make it an ideal side dish.