Parwal Masala Recipe
Parwal Masala is a delightful North Indian dish that features the subtly sweet and mildly bitter taste of parwal (pointed gourd), cooked with an aromatic blend of spices. This vegetarian dish is perfect for a healthy and flavorful lunch or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with Tawa Paratha and Lauki Raita for a satisfying meal. The addition of watermelon in the masala adds a unique twist to the dish, making it refreshing and delightful.
Here’s the detailed recipe to make Parwal Masala:
Ingredients for Parwal Masala Recipe:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Parwal (Pointed Gourd) | 300 grams (peeled and chopped) |
| Tomatoes | 2 (chopped) |
| Watermelon | 3 teaspoons |
| Fresh Ginger | 1-inch piece (finely chopped) |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay Leaf | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Main Course (Lunch/Dinner)
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prep the Parwal:
Begin by washing the parwal thoroughly. Peel the outer skin of each parwal using a vegetable peeler, and then cut them in half lengthwise. Set the parwal aside for later use. -
Make the Paste:
In a mixer grinder, combine the chopped tomatoes, fresh ginger, and watermelon. Grind them into a smooth paste. This will form the base of your masala. -
Cook the Parwal:
Heat oil in a pan or kadhai. Add the chopped parwal pieces and sauté them until they become soft and slightly golden. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Once done, set the cooked parwal aside. -
Prepare the Masala:
In the same pan, add the bay leaf and the prepared tomato-ginger-watermelon paste. Cook this paste on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Add the Spices:
Once the paste has cooked down slightly, add the red chilli powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala powder to the pan. Mix everything well, and let it cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the spices to release their fragrance and flavor. -
Combine Parwal with Masala:
Add the previously sautéed parwal pieces to the pan. Stir to coat the parwal with the masala mixture. Add a little water to create a gravy and help cook the vegetables thoroughly. Let everything cook for about 5 minutes until the flavors meld together. -
Final Touch:
Once the parwal is tender and the masala has thickened to your desired consistency, check the seasoning and add salt to taste. Turn off the heat. -
Serve:
Your Parwal Masala is now ready to serve! Pair it with Tawa Paratha and a side of Lauki Raita for a delicious and fulfilling meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Tips for Best Results:
- Watermelon: Adding watermelon not only enhances the taste but also makes the dish more refreshing. If you can’t find watermelon, you can substitute it with a small amount of finely chopped cucumber or use a bit of grated raw mango for a tangy twist.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chilli powder.
- Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs exceptionally well with roti, paratha, or steamed rice for a wholesome meal. A side of yogurt or raita complements the flavors perfectly.
Parwal Masala is a simple yet flavorful dish that can easily become a favorite in your household. Its vibrant color, aromatic spices, and the subtle sweetness of parwal make it a perfect dish to serve for any meal, especially when you are craving a nutritious vegetarian option. Try this recipe today and enjoy the unique flavors of North India!
