It is simple but delicious type of South Indian sambar. Best side dish for Ven Pongal (Spicy Pongal). Kathirikai (Brinjal) Gothsu/ Gotsu  and Ven Pongal, as well as Gosthu with hot idlis and dosa are a perfect combination.

       This Gotsu is specially prepared using freshly ground masala spices. You can replace this masala with  sambar powder or chilli powder and coriander powder. Gotsu can also be prepared without using moong dhal (skip the last step). Traditionally brinjal was char-grilled and added. (lightly apply oil around the brinjal and cook it on a open flame. Peel the burnt outer skin mash it and add)

Kathirikka Gostu

INGREDIENTS:
Moong Dhal- ½ cup
Brinjal/ Eggplant, diced- 3
Tomato, chopped-1
Onion-1
Green chilli-1(optional)
Tamarind juice- small gooseberry sized
Turmeric- ¼ teaspoon
Salt-to taste

To prepare Gotsu Masala Powder:
Coriander seeds- 1 teaspoon
Cumin seeds - ½ teaspoon
Toor dal/ split pigeon peas- 2 tablespoons
Fenugreek seeds- 1/4 teaspoon
Dry red Chillies-2

To Temper:
Mustard seeds- ½ teaspoon
Curry leaves- 1 sprig
Asafetida- pinch



PROCEDURE:
  • In a deep pan add oil, onions and tomatoes. Sauté till soft.
  • Then add the brinjal and sauté lightly. Add the salt and enough water to cook the brinjal to cook (for 5 minutes).
  • Dry roast the ingredients mentioned to prepare the masala spice powder and powder it.
  • Add the tamarind juice and powdered masala mixture(or) sambar powder(or) chilli powder and coriander powder. Cook till raw smell leaves from the curry.
  • Now add the cooked moong dhal and cook till the curry starts to boil.
  • Splutter the mustard seeds in 2 tablespoons of oil, add the curry leaves and asafetida.
  • Add the tempering and allow to boil for a minute.
Brinjal gostu