DODHAKIYON JO SAAG – MITHO

(Bottle Gourd with Split Green Gram –

Mild/ Sweet)

Recipe Overview

Dodhakiyon jo Mitho Saag is a delicate and comforting Thathai Bhatia dish made with bottle

gourd (lauki) and split green gram (moong dal). Despite being termed “Mitho” (sweet),

the dish is not sugary but refers to its naturally mild, subtle, and soothing flavour profile.

Recipe Details

– Cuisine: Thathai Bhatia / Sindhi

– Course: Main / Vegetable-Lentil

– Preparation Time: 1 hour (soaking)

– Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes

– Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

– Serves: 3–4

Ingredients

– Bottle gourd – 1 no. (medium-sized)

– Split green gram lentil – ¼ cup

– Ghee – 2 tbsp.

– Asafoetida – a pinch

– Salt – to taste

– Water – as required

Method 

Step 1: Preparing the Lentil

– Wash and soak the split green gram lentil in water for 1 hour prior to cooking.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetable

– Peel the bottle gourd and cut it into small rectangular pieces.

Step 3: Tempering the Base

– In a vessel (toap), heat ghee on a medium flame.

– Add asafoetida and allow it to temper gently until aromatic.

Step 4: Cooking the Vegetable & Lentil

– Add the chopped bottle gourd pieces and stir well.

– Add the soaked split green gram and salt.

– Mix thoroughly and cook for a few minutes.

Step 5: Simmering

– Add a small amount of water. (Use minimal water, as the bottle gourd

releases its own moisture.)

– Cover and cook on a medium flame until both the lentil and gourd become tender.

– Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Final Step

– Adjust seasoning if required.

– Serve piping hot.

Serving Suggestions

Dodhakiyon jo Mitho Saag is traditionally served with:

– Phulko (soft flatbread)https://panjakhada.com/phulko/

Chef’s Tips

– Use minimal water to preserve the natural flavour of the bottle gourd.

– Do not overcook—the lentil should be soft but not mushy.

– Ghee enhances the mild sweetness and overall richness of the dish.

Nutritional Insights

– Bottle gourd is light, hydrating, and easy to digest.

– Split green gram provides protein and fibre.

– A wholesome dish ideal for light meals and digestive comfort.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

– Best consumed fresh.

– Can be refrigerated for up to 1–2 days.

– Reheat gently, adding a little water if needed.

Did You Know?

– In traditional terminology, “Mitho” often refers to a mild and non-spicy preparation,

rather than a dish that is actually sweet.

Cultural Notes

Dodhakiyon jo Mitho Saag reflects the Thathai Bhatia approach to simple, nourishing meals.

Its gentle flavours make it a preferred choice for light dinners and easily digestible

home-style cooking.