Ingredients:
Ash Gourd - 1/2 kg
Chana Dal - 1/2 cup
Turmeric Powder  1/2 tsp
Curry Leaves - 2 sprigs
Tamarind Pulp - 1 tsp
Salt to taste
Rice Flour - 1/2 tsp

Fry in 1 tsp Oil and Grind to Paste:
Coriander Seeds - 2 tsp
Cumin Seeds - 1/2 tsp
Fenugreek Seeds - 1/4 tsp
Pepper Corns - 1/2 tsp
Chana Dal - 2 tsp
Asafoetida - a pinch
Coconut Gratings - 4 tblsp
Red Chillies - 2 to 3

For Seasoning:
Oil - 2 tsp
Mustard Seeds - 1 tsp
Curry Leaf - 1 sprig

Method:
1. Pare and cut ash gourd into small cubes, add 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, salt and enough water to cook.
2. Cook separately the chana dal with 1/4 tsp turmeric powder.
3. When cooked mix with the gourd.
4. Add ground paste, tamarind pulp, curry leaves, simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Mix rice flour with some water to smooth paste and cook a while longer till gravy is blended.
6. Season ingredients in oil, add to kootu and mix.
7. Serve hot with rice.