Ridge gourd, a delightful vine-grown vegetable, emerges as a nutrient powerhouse with multiple benefits for our well-being.

It is a remarkable addition to our diet, from aiding digestion to assisting in weight management and even bolstering heart health and immunity.

Notably, its high water content hydrates and detoxifies, while its skin-nourishing and hair-promoting properties rival those of cucumber and bottle gourd.

This versatile vegetable lends itself to many appetizing dishes, and one such gem is ridge gourd sambar.

To prepare this, start by cooking thoor dhal with some turmeric powder until it attains a soft texture.

Opt for either stove-top cooking or expedite the process with a pressure cooker, giving it around 3 to 4 whistles. Once cooked, gently smash the dhal and set it aside.

In a separate cooking vessel, add oil and allow it to heat, and add mustard seeds let it pop. And to this, add chopped onions and tomatoes and sauté it for a while.

Now, it’s time to add the star of the show, peeled and diced ridge gourd. Allow it to mingle with the flavors and cook for a while.

Add the smashed thoor dhal with this. Elevate the dish by introducing the customary sambar spices, including chili powder and sambar powder, infusing it with an irresistible zest.

To achieve a perfect consistency, add some water and let it boil, allowing the raw fragrance of the spices to dissipate.

The moment of satisfaction arrives as you pair this wonderful ridge gourd sambar with soft idlis, crispy dosas, or fragrant rice.