When it comes to healthy eating, incorporating a variety of vegetables into our diet is crucial. One such vegetable that often flies under the radar is lauki, also known as bottle gourd or calabash. This versatile and nutritious veggie can be used in a multitude of dishes, from curries to soups, and even sweet treats like halwa! In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Lauki recipes that will have you looking forward to your next meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this underrated ingredient.
Spicy Lauki Curry
This Spicy Lauki Curry recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on the classic Indian dish, made with bottle gourd (lauki) cooked in a rich and aromatic tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and grated
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add grated lauki and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lauki is tender.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lauki Kofta in Tomato Gravy
A classic Indian dish from the Punjab region, Lauki Kofta is a delightful combination of flavorful bread dumplings cooked in a rich tomato gravy. This recipe is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large lauki (bottle gourds) peeled and grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato puree
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated lauki, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add vegetable oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the koftas until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. In the same pan, add diced tomatoes, tomato puree, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the gravy thickens slightly.
6. Add fried koftas to the tomato gravy. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the koftas are well coated.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki Chana Dal
This popular North Indian dish is a staple in many households, made with tender lauki (bottle gourd), chana dal (split chickpeas), and aromatic spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bottle gourd, peeled and grated
– 1 cup split chickpeas (chana dal)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Then add grated lauki and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add chana dal, garlic, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is cooked.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki Halwa
A traditional Indian dessert, Lauki Halwa is a creamy and sweet delight made with bottle gourd, milk, sugar, and nuts. This simple recipe brings together the comforting flavors of childhood.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and grated
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or butter
– Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, combine the grated lauki and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the lauki is tender and mushy (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Add sugar, cardamom powder, and ghee or butter to the pan. Stir well to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lauki and Moong Dal Khichdi
A comforting and nutritious dish from Indian cuisine, Lauki and Moong Dal Khichdi is a flavorful rice and lentil-based khichdi made with bottle gourd and moong dal (split green gram). This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup moong dal (split green gram)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium-sized bottle gourd, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garam masala powder, for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the moong dal with 2 cups of fresh water until it’s mushy and creamy.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan, add grated bottle gourd, and sauté until it’s slightly softened.
4. Add the cooked moong dal to the pan, along with salt and optional garam masala powder (if using). Mix well.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the khichdi thickens to your liking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lauki Thepla
This recipe makes a crispy and flavorful flatbread using lauki (bottle gourd) as the main ingredient. Perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated lauki
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the grated lauki and sauté until it is soft and lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
3. In a bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, salt, and baking powder.
4. Add the lukewarm water to the dry ingredients and knead a dough.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each one into a ball.
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
7. Cook the theplas on a griddle or frying pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Lauki Raita
A refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with spicy curries and biryanis, Lauki Raita is a simple and flavorful Indian recipe made with yogurt, gourd, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the grated lauki and salt.
2. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes until the lauki releases its excess water and becomes soft.
3. Drain the excess water from the lauki using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, cumin, coriander, and salt.
5. Add the drained lauki to the yogurt mixture and mix well.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lauki and Paneer Sabzi
This Lauki and Paneer Sabzi is a popular North Indian dish that combines the creamy richness of paneer with the subtle sweetness of bottle gourd. The result is a flavorful and comforting curry that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and diced
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they’re lightly browned.
2. Add cumin seeds, garlic, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced bottle gourd and stir well. Cook for 5 minutes or until it’s slightly tender.
4. Add paneer cubes and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lauki Kheer
A classic Indian dessert, Lauki Kheer is a creamy and sweet dish made with lauki (bottle gourd), milk, sugar, and nuts. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bottle gourd (lauki)
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped almonds and pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
1. Peel the lauki and chop it into small pieces.
2. Heat the ghee in a deep pan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped lauki and sauté until it’s soft and cooked through (about 10 minutes).
4. Add the milk, sugar, and cardamom powder to the pan.
5. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the kheer thickens.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lauki Paratha
Lauki parathas are a popular North Indian dish that combines the flavors of bottle gourd and spices with a crispy flatbread. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup bottle gourd puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, bottle gourd puree, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a soft dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the parathas for 30-40 seconds on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Brush with ghee or oil and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lauki Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup made with lauki (bottle gourd), aromatic spices, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized laukis, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced lauki, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the lauki is tender.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki Stir-Fry with Garlic
This Indian-inspired stir-fry recipe is a flavorful and easy way to cook lauki (also known as bottle gourd or calabash). The addition of garlic adds depth and aroma to this vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the diced lauki and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lauki and Potato Curry
This comforting curry is a popular North Indian dish that combines the mild flavor of lauki (bottle gourd) with the earthy taste of potatoes. A simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki, peeled and diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lauki and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lauki Idli
Lauki idli is a unique and delicious breakfast or snack option that combines the flavors of bottle gourd (lauki) with the lightness of idlis. This recipe is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated lauki
– 1 cup idli rava (semolina)
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon oil
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Grate the lauki and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together idli rava, grated lauki, yogurt, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour the mixture into the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
4. Flip the idlis over and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or sambar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lauki Cutlets
A delicious and unique twist on traditional lauki (bottle gourd) dish, Lauki Cutlets are a flavorful snack or side that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized lauki, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated lauki, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to ensure the lauki is evenly coated with the dry ingredients.
3. Add ghee or oil, chopped onion, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix until the mixture forms a thick paste.
4. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on how large you want your cutlets to be.
5. Shape each portion into a cutlet and flatten slightly.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lauki and Besan Sabzi
This classic North Indian dish is a staple at many households, and its simplicity makes it a breeze to prepare. Lauki and Besan Sabzi is a flavorful and nutritious vegetable sabzi made with bottle gourd, besan (gram flour), and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized bottle gourd, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons besan
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the grated bottle gourd, besan, green chili, ginger paste, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the lauki is tender and the besan has thickened slightly.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti or rice.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lauki and Corn Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of comforting warmth and tangy sweetness, making it a great accompaniment to rice or roti. With the tender goodness of lauki (bottle gourd) and sweet corn, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki (bottle gourd), peeled and diced
– 2 cups fresh sweet corn kernels
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3-4 green chilies, slit
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden brown.
2. Add green chilies, ginger, curry powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lauki and sweet corn kernels. Stir well to combine.
4. Add water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lauki and Coconut Curry
A creamy and aromatic curry that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of lauki (bottle gourd). This recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 large lauki, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add lauki cubes and stir well. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the lauki is slightly tender.
5. Stir in coconut milk and water/broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the lauki is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki and Peas Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional Indian cuisine, featuring tender lauki (bottle gourd) and sweet peas in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium lauki, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and turmeric; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add lauki cubes and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in peas and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes more.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lauki and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Indian cuisine, made with the humble bottle gourd (lauki) and red lentils. The result is a comforting, flavorful bowl that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki (bottle gourd), peeled and chopped
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and turmeric; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped lauki and lentils; stir well to combine.
5. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Summary
Discover the diverse culinary world of lauki recipes! This article presents 20 mouth-watering dishes that showcase the versatility and health benefits of this underrated vegetable. From spicy curries to creamy kheers, these recipes offer something for everyone. Try making Lauki Kofta in Tomato Gravy, Lauki Chana Dal, or Lauki Halwa for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Or, opt for lighter options like Lauki Raita or Lauki Soup. Whichever recipe you choose, you’ll be delighted by the explosion of flavors and textures that lauki has to offer. Get cooking with these 20 delicious recipes!
