Here is a simple Kerala-style preparation that I make very often.
Ingredients:
300 grams kovakka/tindora/ivy gourd, cut into thin strips (I used the pre-cut frozen ones.)
4-5 shallots, finely chopped
Salt to taste
To be ground coarsely:
1/3 cup coconut
2-3 red chillies
1-2 garlic cloves
½ tsp cumin seeds
For seasoning:
1 Tbsp oil
½ tsp urad dal
½ tsp mustard seeds
A pinch of asafoetida
3-4 curry leaves
Method:
In a pan, heat the oil & add the ingredients for the seasoning (urad dal, mustard seeds, asafoetida and curry leaves).
Sauté the shallots, add the frozen ivy gourd and cook on medium to high heat till all the water evaporates and the strips are done, 5-7 minutes.
Add the ground paste (coconut, red chillies, garlic and cumin seeds) and mix well. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot with rice and rasam.