Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

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

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 9: Serve

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

• Taste ridge gourd for bitterness before cooking.

• Serve with roti or steamed rice.