Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Ridge Gourd

   Peel the skin of the ridge gourd and chop it into pieces. It is recommended to taste a small piece of ridge gourd for bitterness before cooking.

2. 2.Start Sautéing in Instant Pot

   Turn the Instant Pot on 'Sauté' mode. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and 6 crushed garlic cloves to the pot.

3. 3.Add Whole Spices

   Add 2 tablespoons of whole urad dal, 1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds, 1/2 tablespoon of mustard seeds, and 1 whole dry red chili to the pot. Sauté until fragrant.

4. 4.Add Vegetables

   Add the chopped tomatoes (3), carrots (3), and ridge gourd (3) to the Instant Pot.

5. 5.Season with Powdered Spices

   Add 1/4 tablespoon of salt, 1/4 tablespoon of turmeric, 1 tablespoon of red chili powder, 1/2 tablespoon of coriander powder, and 1/2 tablespoon of cumin powder to the vegetables.

6. 6.Add Dal and Water

   Add 1 cup of pre-soaked Toor Dal or Yellow Moong Dal and 1 cup of water to the pot.

7. 7.Pressure Cook

   Mix all the ingredients well. Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode for 7 minutes on high pressure. Once cooking is complete, unplug the Instant Pot and allow for a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), followed by a Quick Pressure Release (QPR) for any remaining pressure.

8. 8.Finish with Ghee and Lime

   Once the pressure is released, open the lid. Add 2 tablespoons of ghee and the juice of 1 lime to the dal. Stir well to combine.

9. 9.Serve

   The Instant Pot Ridge Gourd Dal is now ready to be served. Enjoy with roti or steamed rice.