Petha

Thoroughly prick each Ash Gourd cube all over with a fork or a specialized petha pricker. This helps the lime solution and sugar syrup penetrate.

In a large non-reactive bowl, dissolve Calcium Hydroxide in 1000 grams of Water. Add the pricked Ash Gourd cubes to this solution, ensuring they are fully submerged. Place a plate on top to keep them immersed. Let them soak for 10-12 hours, preferably overnight.

After soaking, drain the Ash Gourd cubes from the Calcium Hydroxide solution. Rinse the Ash Gourd cubes under running water at least 5-6 times, squeezing gently each time, until there is no trace of lime smell or taste.