### Gutti Dondakaya Recipe: An Easy Yet Tasty Andhra Style Stuffed Ivy Gourd
Andhra cuisine is celebrated for its array of stuffed vegetable recipes, with Gutti Dondakaya, or stuffed ivy gourd, being one of the most beloved. This classic vegetarian dish is a fundamental part of Telugu cooking, reflecting the rich culinary tradition of Andhra Pradesh. The recipe is straightforward yet bursting with flavor, making it a wonderful addition to any dining experience.
#### Ingredients
**For the Stuffing (Kura Podi):**
– 4-5 dried red chilies
– 1/4 cup dried coconut (copra)
– 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup Bengal gram (chana dal)
– Salt to taste
**For the Main Dish:**
– 250 grams ivy gourd (dondakaya), tender and a bit plump
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– A handful of fresh curry leaves
– A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
– Water as needed
– Chopped coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Kura Podi:**
– In a dry skillet, toast the dry red chilies, dried coconut, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, and Bengal gram over low heat until they achieve a golden brown color. Stir consistently to avoid burning.
– After roasting, let the mixture cool and grind it into a coarse powder. Season with salt to taste and blend thoroughly.
2. **Prepare the Ivy Gourd:**
– Rinse the ivy gourds well. Cut them halfway through lengthwise, ensuring not to slice all the way, which creates a pocket for the stuffing.
– Fill each ivy gourd with the prepared kura podi, pressing gently to keep the stuffing contained.
3. **Cook the Stuffed Ivy Gourd:**
– Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them pop.
– Introduce fresh curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida, sautéing for a few seconds until aromatic.
– Carefully place the stuffed ivy gourds in the pan. Cook on low heat, turning occasionally, until they are tender and thoroughly cooked, approximately 15-20 minutes. Add a little water if needed to prevent sticking.
4. **Serve:**
– After cooking, remove from heat. While no extra garnishing is necessary, you can add some chopped coriander leaves for added visual appeal.
– Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
#### Tips for the Best Gutti Dondakaya
– Select tender, slightly plump ivy gourds for optimal flavor and texture.
– Roasting the spices for the kura podi is essential; ensure they are golden brown for the best taste.
– The dish can be prepped in advance, and the kura podi can be made in larger batches and stored for future use.
Gutti Dondakaya is a flexible dish that captures the spirit of Andhra cooking. It is not only delightful but also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. Savor this tasty dish as part of your regular diet, and it might just become a cherished family favorite!