For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water. Adjust the amount of red chile peppers and ground red pepper to your preferred spice level. If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook the dal and gourd in a regular pot on the stovetop. Simmer for a longer time, about 45-60 minutes, or until the dal is tender. A pinch of garam masala can be added at the end for extra warmth. Fresh cilantro makes an excellent garnish.
Doodhi Chana
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME30 mins
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TOTAL TIME40 mins
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SERVING6 People
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VIEWS9
A comforting and subtly spiced Indian lentil and gourd curry, perfect for a weeknight meal. This simple dish features the delicate sweetness of calabash gourd simmered with hearty chana dal, creating a balanced and flavorful experience.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate16 g
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Fiber5 g
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Protein5 g
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Saturated Fat1 g
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Sodium10 mg
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Sugar2 g
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Fat5 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
2 mins
In a pressure cooker, combine the calabash gourd, chana dal, turmeric, and water (or vegetable broth). (2 minutes)
02
Step
23 mins
Seal the pressure cooker and cook at high pressure for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 3 minutes. (23 minutes)
03
Step
15 mins
Remove from heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. (15 minutes)
04
Step
2 mins
While the pressure is releasing, heat the oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. (2 minutes)
05
Step
1 mins
Add the dried red chile peppers and cumin seeds. Fry until the seeds begin to splutter and become fragrant, about 30 seconds. (1 minute)
06
Step
1 mins
Add the minced ginger and garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden. (1 minute)
07
Step
2 mins
Carefully open the pressure cooker once the pressure has fully released. Stir the calabash and lentil mixture into the saucepan with the spices. (2 minutes)
08
Step
7 mins
Add the ground red pepper, sugar (or jaggery), and salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. (7 minutes)
09
StepAdjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with plain rice, roti, or naan.
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Please Rate
Jacky Parisian
Jun 28, 2025I've made this recipe several times and it's always a hit. I especially love the balance of flavors.
Landen Bauch
Jun 27, 2025This recipe is so easy to follow, and the curry is absolutely delicious! My family loved it.
Tatum Gulgowski
Jun 26, 2025I found the curry a bit too spicy for my taste, so I reduced the amount of red pepper. It was perfect after that!
Raina Doyle
Jun 25, 2025Simple, flavorful and satisfying! A great vegan meal option.
Cleora Connelly
Jun 24, 2025I added a can of diced tomatoes for extra flavor and it turned out great!
Vickie Mccullough
Jun 21, 2025I didn't have calabash gourd, so I substituted zucchini. It worked really well!
Lenna Boyerschinner
Jun 15, 2025The pressure cooker makes this dish so quick to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight meal.
Clementine Simonis
Jun 9, 2025This is my go-to recipe for Doodhi Chana now. Thank you for sharing!