Hydrating Clear Bottle Gourd Soup

1. 1
   prep

   Peel and cut the bottle gourd.

   1.Peel the bottle gourd and discard the skin.

   2.Cut it in half lengthwise; if there are any hard seeds, scoop them out.

   3.Slice into thin 1-inch long pieces.
2. 2
   temper · ~2 min

   Make the tempering with cumin.

   1.Heat ghee in a deep pot over medium heat.

   2.Add cumin seeds and let them crackle (30 sec).

   3.Add julienned ginger and slit green chili. Sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

   TIPUse medium-low heat — the ginger burns fast.
3. 3
   simmer · ~17 min

   Simmer the bottle gourd until tender.

   1.Add the cut bottle gourd and a pinch of salt. Sauté gently for 1 minute.

   2.Pour in 3 cups of water and the remaining salt.

   3.Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

   4.Cover and cook for 15 minutes, until the gourd pieces are translucent and tender.

   TIPDon't let the soup boil vigorously — a gentle simmer keeps the broth crystal clear and the bottle gourd tender without turning mushy.
4. 4
   mix

   Finish with pepper and lemon juice.

   1.Turn off the heat.

   2.Stir in freshly ground black pepper and lemon juice.

   3.Check seasoning and adjust salt if needed.
5. 5
   garnish

   Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

   Ladle into bowls, scatter chopped coriander leaves on top, and serve immediately.

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