The forgotten humble veggie which is full of goodness– Choko!!
Chayote, Choko, Chow Chow all refer to the green vegetable, which is also known as a vegetable pear originating from Mexico
The vegetable as such does not have any distinctive flavour or taste but when cooked with various spices it is delectable and scrumptious!!
This is a quick and simple dish with spices added to enhance the flavour of the veggie!!
In Australia and New Zealand is it easily grown in the back yard as a vine – Incidentally this dish has been prepared from the freshly picked Choko from our garden!!!!
Ingredients to serve 6 people
2 Medium Sized Chokoes
1 Inch Tamarind
1-2 Tbs Salt
For Seasoning
1 Tbs Oil
2 Tsp Mustard Seeds
1 Tsp Urad Dal
2-3 Red Chillies
½ inch Asafoetida OR
¼ Tsp Asafoetida Powder
Choko Thogayal or Chutney
Preparation
Peel and chop the veggie into small cubes, microwave for 5-6 minutes with a tablespoon of water and keep aside OR
Cook directly on the stove with a couple of tablespoons of water until done
Heat half the tablespoon of oil in the pan
Add the mustard seeds, urad dal, red chillies and asafoetida
Fry for a couple of minutes until the dal turns golden brown
Add the cooked veggie to the seasoning
Cool and grind the above with the tamarind and salt into a soft mixture.
Add the remainder of the oil in the pan, and saute the mixture for 2-3 minutes.
This awesome thogayal or chutney is ready to be served
Note: This can be mixed with plain cooked rice and eaten or as an accompaniment
The number of red chillies can be increased or decreased to suit the palate of the individuals