Kumbalanga Olan

White Gourd is called Kumbalam/Kumbalangana in southern regions while Ilavan in Malabar. Olan is an integral part of Thrissur Sadya, and in Thiruvananthapuram Sadya too, it’s served along with Pine Apple Pulissery, soon after payasams and pradhamans.  Preparation method may vary in different places and this is one such method. Also read: Complete dishes of Thiruvananthapuram Sadhya. 

Ingredients for Kumbalanga (Ilavan) Olan:

1. Kumbalanga (White guard) – 1/2 kg
2. Coconut – 1

Olan preparation method:

1. Cut white guard to thin pieces.
2. Extract 2 milks from coconut.
3. Cook white guard using second milk.
4. Add first milk and put the flame off. Never allow to boil.

N.B: Salt or coconut oil is not added while preparing this olan for sadya (Kerala feast) as it’s told that, it helps to identify the tastes of other curries better.