Spiny Gourd, Kantola

Spiny Gourd (Phagil) is a spiky green vegetable. It is also known as kantola, kakora, kakrol, spine gourd, teasle gourd etc. Available during the monsoon season this vegetable is not only super tasty but also provides a whole lot of health benefits. The appearance (and name) of the vegetable is quite misleading.  Looks spiny but when cooked is so tender, it rather took me by surprise.  Turned out to be delicious!

Seasonal vegetables are great if you are looking for regular intake of nutrition and still go easy on your pocket. The best part of including seasonal fruits and vegetables in your diet is their inherent ability to fight seasonal illnesses and flu.

Ingredients

½ Kg. Spiny Gourd

1 tsp. chilli powder or to taste

½ tsp. turmeric

1 lemon, juice (optional)

1 tsp.salt or to taste

2 tbsp. oil

Wash the kantola and chop the ends and slice.  Hard seeds, if any may be removed or can be discarded while eating.  Sprinkle the chilli and turmeric powders and salt and lemon juice and mix well.  Set aside for 15 minutes.  Fry the slices and stir fry, till cooked.  The appearance (and name) of the vegetable is quite misleading.  Looks spiny but when cooked is so tender, it rather took me by surprise.  Turned out to be delicious!