In a cooker, add dal and wash well

Add water and pressure cook for 3-4 whistles

In a mixer jar, add red chilli, coconut, pepper, and cumin seeds and a little water; grind

After the cooker pressure releases naturally, prepare kootu

In a wide pan, add oil and when the oil is hot, add mustard seeds, urad dal, and curry leaves; let them splutter

Keep the tadka aside

Add zucchini and give a good mix

Furthermore, add the required salt and cook for 2 minutes

Add the ground paste and 1/2 cup of water; cook for around 5 minutes until zucchini turns fork-tender

If required, add more water and cook till they turn soft

Add cooked dal and give a good mix

Furthermore, add 3/4 cup of water, coriander leaves, asafoetida, turmeric powder, and sugar; cook for 5 minutes

Add the prepared tadka, give a good mix, and turn off the stove