Ridge Gourd Bajji

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Ridge Gourd Bajji (Heerekai bajji / Peerkangai bajji) is a very popular South Indian tea time / evening snack. Ideally suited for monsoon or winter times, they are a delicacy all year round. Perfect to get those fussy eaters to eat ridge gourds.

Ingredients:

• Ridge Gourd (Heerekai/Peerkangai) – 1, peeled
• Bengal Gram Glour – 1 cup
• Rice Flour – 1/2 cup
• Red Chilli Powder – 1 tsp
• Ginger Garlic Paste – 1 tsp
• Asafoetida – a pinch
• Turmeric Powder – a pinch
• Omam (Carom Seeds) – 1/2 tsp
• Oil for frying
• Salt as per taste

Method:

1. Cut the peerkangai into medium rounds or sticks.
2. Mix the rice flour, gram flour, asafoetida, carom seeds, ginger garlic paste,salt, turmeric powder in a bowl.
3. Add enough water and mix well to a thick pourable batter.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Dip the peerkangai (ridge gourd) in the batter, and add it to the hot oil.
6. Deep fry until golden brown and remove from flame.
7. Drain the excess oil using kitchen towel.
8. Serve hot with any chutney or ketchup.

image via youtube