TALALĒLĒ SARPADANŚA

(FRIED SNAKE GOURD)

Pathare Prabhu community are thorough non vegetarians…….. But during festivals and certain occasions they have elaborate vegetarian meals…….. Fried Snake Gourd is one such dish……. Snake gourd is called Sarpadansá in Marathi…… Snake gourd is a low calorie vegetable which aids in digestive process, reduces the effects of bloating & constipation, improves blood circulation, prevents scalp disorders, prevents respiratory problems, etc…….. Fried snake gourd can be served with steamed rice and dal (lentil curry)…… It can be also be served as snacks or as starters.

INGREDIENTS : 100 gms Snake Gourd, a pinch of Turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chilli powder, 1/2 tsp Prabhi Sambhar Masala, Salt to taste, 1-2 tbsp rice flour, Oil.

DIRECTIONS : Peel the snake gourd……. Cut into two halves lengthwise…… Discard the fibrous bits from the inside……. Chop……. Heat enough oil for deep frying……..Salt the snake gourd pieces……. Rest for a minute….. Drain out the liquid that comes out of snake gourd…… Add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, Prabhi Sambhar Masala…… Mix well with to coat the snake gourd…… Now dredge with rice flour……. Deep fry in oil over medium heat till done…… Take out and keep it on tissue to soak excess oil….. Serve hot.

NOTES : Salting of the snake gourd should be done just before frying…… If the salt is left on for too long, the texture of the gourd will be ruined due to loss of too much moisture…… While heating oil one must be careful…… If the oil is not hot enough, lot of oil will be absorbed and the dish will be ruined……… If the oil reaches smoking point, the snake gourd will burn resulting in bitterness….. Red chilli powder can be adjusted according to taste.

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