Are you looking for a flavorful and nutritious addition to your meals? Look no further than lauki, also known as bottle gourd or calabash. This versatile vegetable is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost your overall health and well-being. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to incorporate into your diet through a variety of delicious recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering lauki recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From hearty curries and stews to refreshing juices and raitas, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meals.
So let’s get started! Here are 18 delicious lauki recipes for healthy living…
Lauki Chana Dal Curry
This popular Punjabi curry is a comforting and nutritious meal made with bottle gourd, chana dal, and aromatic spices. It’s a perfect dish for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and chopped
– 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped lauki and chana dal. Stir well to combine.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the dal is cooked and the lauki is tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lauki Kofta in Tomato Gravy
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of lauki (bottle gourd) with the warmth of spices and a rich tomato gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium bottle gourds (lauki), grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add grated lauki, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the lauki is tender.
6. Stir in crushed tomatoes and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Lauki Halwa with Cardamom
Lauki halwa is a popular North Indian dessert made with bottle gourd, milk, sugar, and spices. This recipe adds the warmth of cardamom to create a unique and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bottle gourd, peeled and grated
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the grated lauki and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the milk and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the lauki is fully cooked and the mixture has thickened.
4. Add the sugar and cardamom powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lauki and Moong Dal Khichdi
This traditional Indian dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the soothing taste of lauki (bottle gourd) with the nutty goodness of moong dal. A comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki, peeled and diced
– 1 cup moong dal (split green gram)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: ghee or butter for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the diced lauki to the pan and cook until it’s tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the soaked moong dal, water, and salt to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the dal is cooked and mushy.
5. Serve hot, garnished with ghee or butter if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Lauki Raita with Mint and Cumin
This refreshing Indian side dish is a perfect accompaniment to spicy meals or as a light snack. The combination of tender lauki (bottle gourd), creamy yogurt, and the zesty flavors of mint and cumin will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 small lauki (bottle gourd), peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated lauki, yogurt, mint leaves, lemon juice, and cumin.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including chilling time)
Lauki Paratha with Spiced Filling
Lauki parathas are a popular North Indian flatbread filled with a flavorful spiced mixture, perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bottle gourd with aromatic spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized bottle gourds (lauki)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– For the filling:
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
+ 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
+ 1/2 teaspoon amchur powder (dried mango powder)
+ Salt, to taste
+ Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Grate the bottle gourds and squeeze out excess water.
2. Mix grated lauki with flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Knead into a dough and set aside.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, onion, garlic, coriander powder, amchur powder, and salt. Cook until the mixture is fragrant and slightly browned.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Place about 1 tablespoon of the spiced filling in the center of each circle. Fold and seal the edges to form a paratha.
7. Cook the parathas on a preheated non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lauki Soup with Ginger and Garlic
This comforting soup is a popular Punjabi dish that combines the humble lauki (bottle gourd) with aromatic ginger and garlic. The result is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups water
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Saute until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the diced lauki and saute for another 5 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lauki is tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki and Paneer Stir-Fry
A classic North Indian dish, Lauki and Paneer Stir-Fry is a simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of lauki (bottle gourd) with the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese). This quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki, peeled and grated
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add grated lauki and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
6. Add paneer cubes and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until the paneer is lightly browned.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lauki Besan Sabzi with Mustard Seeds
This comforting Indian curry is made by sautéing musty mustard seeds with besan (gram flour) and then adding cooked lauki (bottle gourd), spinach, and spices. The result is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, and turmeric powder. Saute until the onion is translucent.
3. Add besan and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until it turns light golden brown.
4. Add grated lauki, salt, and spinach leaves. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the lauki is tender.
6. Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki Kheer with Condensed Milk
Lauki kheer is a popular Indian dessert that combines the natural sweetness of lauki (bottle gourd) with the richness of condensed milk. This creamy treat is perfect for warm weather, as it’s light and refreshing.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bottle gourd (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the lauki until it’s tender and mashed.
2. In a separate pan, combine sugar, melted butter, and condensed milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Add the mashed lauki, cardamom powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the kheer has reached your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lauki and Potato Curry
This hearty curry recipe combines the flavors of tender lauki (bottle gourd) and potatoes with a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium lauki, peeled and diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lauki and potatoes. Stir well to combine.
4. Add tomato puree, 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 and serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki Stuffed with Spiced Lentils
This recipe combines the comfort of lauki (bottle gourd) with the warmth of spiced lentils, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized lauki
– 1 cup split red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Scoop out the insides of the lauki and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add lentils and cook until they’re lightly browned.
6. Stuff each lauki with the spiced lentil mixture and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the lauki is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lauki Juice with Lemon and Mint
Enjoy a revitalizing drink this summer with this simple recipe that combines the natural goodness of lauki (bottle gourd), lemon, and mint. This refreshing juice is perfect for hot days or as a pre-workout pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped lauki
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped lauki, lemon juice, and mint leaves.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
3. Strain the juice into a glass to remove any pulp or fibers.
4. Add honey to taste, if desired, for a touch of sweetness.
5. Fill the glass with ice cubes, if you prefer a chilled drink.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.
Lauki and Tomato Curry
This popular Indian curry recipe combines the humblest of ingredients – bottle gourd (lauki) and tomatoes – to create a flavorful and comforting dish. With its creamy texture and tangy taste, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized bottle gourds (lauki), peeled and grated
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add grated lauki, tomatoes, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
5. Add water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the lauki is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lauki Idli with Coconut Chutney
This recipe combines the warmth of Lauki (bottle gourd) idlis with the creaminess of coconut chutney, perfect for a cozy winter morning.
Ingredients:
For Lauki Idlis:
– 1 large bottle gourd (Lauki), peeled and grated
– 1 cup rice flour
– 1/2 cup curd
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
For Coconut Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh coconut, grated
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix grated Lauki with rice flour, curd, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add water as needed to form a smooth batter.
3. Steam the batter for 15-20 minutes or until idlis are cooked through.
4. For chutney, blend all ingredients together until smooth.
5. Serve Lauki Idlis with Coconut Chutney and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lauki and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful and nutritious combination of bitter melon (lauki) and chickpeas, perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lauki, peeled and diced
– 1 can of chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups of water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the diced lauki and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the chickpeas and water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lauki is tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lauki Cutlets with Coriander Chutney
These crispy Lauki cutlets, made with bottle gourd and spices, are a popular street food in North India. Paired with a fresh coriander chutney, they make for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
For the Lauki Cutlets:
– 2 medium bottle gourds (Lauki), grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Breadcrumbs, for coating
For the Coriander Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix grated Lauki, chopped onion, ginger paste, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt.
2. Shape into cutlets and coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Fry in hot oil until golden brown (5-6 minutes).
4. Drain excess oil and serve hot.
5. For the chutney, blend all ingredients together.
6. Serve Lauki Cutlets with Coriander Chutney and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lauki and Carrot Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the slightly bitter taste of lauki (bottle gourd). This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium-sized lauki, peeled and diced
• 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the diced lauki and grated carrots, stir-fry for 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Season with salt and soy sauce (if using), then stir-fry for another minute.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of healthy living with these 18 delectable lauki recipes! From comforting curries and soups to innovative stir-fries and idlis, this collection has something for everyone. Try Lauki Chana Dal Curry or Lauki Kofta in Tomato Gravy for a taste of North Indian cuisine. Or, go international with Lauki Soup with Ginger and Garlic or Lauki Cutlets with Coriander Chutney. With a variety of flavors and textures to explore, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
