Olan- Simple & Easy

This recipe is also part of Kerala Sadya(Thali in Hindi).My method of preparation differs from the traditional method.Olan can be made in many different ways. Here I am using Kumblanga (Ash gourd/Winter melon) and Black eye beans as the main ingredients and my personal style of preparation....

Things you will need:

Kumblanga (Ash gourd/Winter melon)- 1 lb
Black Eye beans- 1 cup
Coconut milk – 1 can
Green Chillies- 4 or 5 slit in half lengthwise
Curry Leaves
Oil- 1 tbsp preferably coconut oil
Water 1 cup
Mustard seeds- 1 tsp

Preparation Method:

Cut Kumblanga (Ash gourd/Winter melon) into thin, 1 inch square, slices.
Cook the black eye beans very well, to the point that , they should retain their shape but crushing them to paste should be absolutely effortless.
Now heat oil and add mustard seeds. When mustard seeds splutter,add green chillies , curry leaves, Ash gourd, black eye beans ,salt and water.
Bring this to a boil.
Add coconut milk and simmer for 3 minutes.

Olan is ready to be served with hot steamed rice and a stir fry like Kappa Mezhkupuratti.