PARANGIKKAI PAALKOOTU (RED PUMPKIN KOOTU)

Preparation Time: 10 mts Cooking Time: 20 mts Serves: 2

There are two types of pumpkins in India - green & red. Red pumpkin is grown all over the world & is used in a variety of dishes. Red pumpkin has nutrients like beta-carotene, carbohydrates, potassium & magnesium. In the United States it is used to make pie for Thanksgiving. It is also used as candle holder during Halloween day. This kootu was taught to me by my Mother-in-law.

Ingredients:

Red pumpkin - 250 gms

Green gram dal (paasi paruppu) - 25 gms

Milk - 1/2 cup

Green chilies - 2 nos

Curry leaves - 2 sprigs

Coconut oil - 1 tbsp

Salt - to taste

Method:



Slice the red pumpkin in to 2 inch square pieces. Fry the dal slightly in a kadai & boil in the pressure cooker with enough water. Slit the green chilies. Place the cut pumpkin pieces & the chilies in a vessel. Add enough water & salt. Cook it till the pumpkin is tender. Mash it with the back of a spoon or ladle. Mash the dal & add it to the pumpkin & let it boil. Mix the milk in to it. Switch off the heat & add the curry leaves & coconut oil. Parangikkai paalkootu is ready. This kootu will have a mild sweetness to it & can be eaten as it is or as a side dish with sambar rice & chapathis.

Variations:

People staying abroad can do this kootu with the squash available there.

Tips:

1. This kootu will have mild sweetness to it. Those who need more sweetness can add a little sugar to the kootu.


2. Add coconut milk instead of plain milk. This will give the kootu a rich taste.

Taste it & enjoy.