Al Hach, or dried bottle gourd, is a traditional sun-dried delicacy from Kashmir, cherished for its rich taste and health benefits. Made by carefully drying fresh bottle gourd under the Himalayan sun, this preserved vegetable retains its nutritional value while enhancing its flavor.

Widely used in authentic Kashmiri cuisine, Al Hach is perfect for preparing delicious curries and stews, adding a unique earthy taste to meals. It is a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals, making it a healthy choice for home-cooked dishes.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Kashmir with this organic and preservative-free delicacy, perfect for traditional and healthy cooking!

Al Hach with Red Lentils Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 15-20 strips of KashmirGift's Al Hach (Dried Bottle Gourd)
• 2 cups red lentils (Masoor Dal)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 lemon
• A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• Black cardamom – 1 (crushed)
• Water as needed
• Cooking oil
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the Al Hach. Rub the dried gourd pieces with hot water to remove any dust, then wash and set aside.
2. Rinse the red lentils and keep them ready for cooking.
3. Boil water in a kettle, place the Al Hach in a bowl, and cover with the hot water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes to rehydrate.
4. In a pressure cooker, heat oil over medium flame. Add crushed black cardamom and sauté until fragrant.
5. Add the chopped onions to the cooker and fry until they turn a soft pink hue.
6. Introduce the tomatoes to the mix, cooking until they soften and the oil starts to separate.
7. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, followed by the chili and turmeric powders, cooking the spices until aromatic.
8. To this fragrant base, add the pre-soaked Al Hach and red lentils, giving everything a good stir to combine.
9. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and close the pressure cooker lid.
10. Cook until the lentils are tender and the Al Hach is perfectly rehydrated.
11. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
12. Serve hot alongside fluffy cooked rice for a comforting and traditional Kashmiri meal.

Embrace the art of Kashmiri cooking with KashmirGift Al Hach, a versatile and delightful ingredient that will elevate your culinary creations and warm your soul.