Mathanga -Payar Thoran / Pumpkin & Green gram stir fry

A Kerala style side dish for rice , Addition of pumpkin to dal / Green gram makes it extra nutritious.

That bright orange color in Pumpkin is from a component called Beta-carotene - which is converted to Vitamin A in the body. 

Vitamin A supports Vision and over all health , and are recommended specially for breast feeding mothers. 

For more Beta Carotene , Look for Fruits & Vegetables which are orange in color,

example : Mango , Carrot , cantaloupe & Apricots. 

Ingredients 

Pumpkin - 1 cup cubed 

Moong dal / Green Gram - 1/2 cup ( uncooked )

Onion - 1 medium chopped

Garlic - 2 to 3 no's crushed 

Grated Coconut - 1/4 cup 

Coconut Oil - 2 Tb sp

Turmeric Powder - 1/4 tsp

Red chili Powder - 2 tsp (Adjust as per your tolerance level) 

Salt to taste 

Curry Leaves - 1 spring (I didn't use) 

Method 

*Wash and cook the green gram with enough water , till almost done.

 (Avoid cooking the same in a pressure cooker as then it may get over cooked) 

*When almost done add the cubed pumpkin and salt , cover and cook till everything is nicely cooked. 

* In an other pan , heat oil and add crushed garlic , saute for few seconds and add chopped onion and saute till onion looks golden brown, add turmeric powder and red chili powder and curry leaves (if using) and stir.

* Add the cooked dal/grams and pumpkin and stir till well combined , add in the grated coconut and stir again.

* Saute till everything is well combined and looks dry.

Cheers

TN