Chow chow Kootu | Chayote Kootu

Chayote or Chow chow is native of Mexico. It is rich in amino acids and vitamin C. Buy chow chow that is green, firm and with no brown spots and no signs of sprouting. It is often referred as Bangalore Kathirikkai in Tamil Nadu. Kootu is a simple healthy dish prepared with vegetable and dal. For this kootu,  I have used moong dal. We can also use toor dal or chana dal. Please check below for step by step instructions and pictures for preparing South Indian Chow chow Kootu.

Preparation Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins 
Ready In: 30 mins
Yields : 2 Servings

Ingredients:

Chow chow chopped	1/2 Cup
Moong dal | Pasi paruppu	1/4 Cup
Oil	2 tsp
Mustard	1/4 tsp
Cumin seeds	1/2 tsp
Curry leaves	2
Red Chillies	2
Urad dal	1/2 tsp
Asafoetida Powder	Pinch
Salt
Onions chopped	1/4 cup
Tomato chopped	1/4 Cup
Turmeric  Powder	1/4 tsp
Coriander Powder	1/2 tsp
Chilli Powder	1 tsp

Instructions:

• Wash and Peel the outer skin of Chow chow. Remove the seeds and Cut into small cubes.

• Wash moong dal 2-3 times. Pressure Cook moong dal and chow chow for 3-4 whistles. 

• Heat Oil in a pan. Add mustard, cumin seeds, red chillies curry leaves, urad dal and asafoetida powder.When urad dal turns golden colour, add onions. Fry till onions turn translucent.

• Add tomato and fry till tomatoes turn mushy. Add cooked chow chow and moong dal.

• Add salt, turmeric powder, coriander powder and chilli powder. Add 1/2 cup of water . Mix well and close it with lid. Allow the kootu to boil. Garnish with coriander leaves.

Chow chow Kootu | Bangalore Kathirikkai Kootu

Tips:
Adjust chilly powder to your taste.
Moong dal can be replaced with Chana dal or toor dal