Experience a burst of authentic Indian flavors with our easy-to-make lauki kofta curry. A nutritious delight for the entire family.
Lauki kofta is a delightful Indian dish that beautifully combines the goodness of bottle gourd (lauki) with the richness of spiced tomato gravy. If you’re seeking a vegetarian option that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the world of flavors as we explore how to make this delectable lauki kofta (bottle gourd kofta).
WHAT IS LAUKI
Lauki, also known as “bottle gourd” or “dudhi,” is a commonly used vegetable in Indian households. Its mild flavor and high water content make it a versatile ingredient in various dishes.
NUTRITION VALUE
Lauki is not only low in calories but also a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains a significant amount of water, aiding hydration, and is rich in dietary fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.
LAUKI KOFTA RECIPE
| Prep Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings |
| 30 Min | 20 Min | 50 Min | 4 |
- Course: Side dish
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
INGREDIENTS
FOR KOFTAS
- 1 medium-sized bottle gourd (lauki)
- 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (Dried Fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
FOR THE GRAVY
- 3 ripe tomatoes, pureed
- 2 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons spinach paste
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoon besan (roasted)
- 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri mirch
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
HOW TO MAKE LAUKI KOFTA
PREPARING KOFTA MIXTURE
- Begin by peeling and grating the bottle gourd (lauki).
- Squeeze out excess water from the grated lauki using your hands.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed lauki, besan, chili flakes, turmeric powder, garm masala, kasuri methi and salt.
- Add water and mix the ingredients well to form a dough-like consistency.
SHAPING AND FRYING KOFTAS
- Heat oil in a pan for frying.
- Take small portions of the kofta mixture and shape them into round or oval koftas.
- Carefully slide the koftas into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown.
- Once fried, place the koftas on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
MAKING THE GRAVY
- Add onion, tomato, green chili, and spinach paste in a grinder and grind until they turn into a paste
- In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the tomato onion paste we made and sauté on low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the ginger paste cooking for a minute.
- Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, roasted besan, and salt.
- Cook the mixture until the oil starts to separate from the gravy.
- Sprinkle garam masala and pour in the fresh cream. Mix well.
COMBINING KOFTAS AND GRAVY
- Add the fried koftas to the gravy.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Enjoy!
Also read: Delicious Lauki Chana Dal Recipe
TIPS FOR PERFECT LAUKI KOFTA
- Squeeze the lauki well to ensure the koftas hold their shape during frying.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
- For a healthier version, you can bake the koftas instead of frying.
VARIATIONS
- Try adding grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to the kofta mixture for extra richness.
- Experiment with different types of gravies, such as cashew-based or spinach-based.
The delicate koftas paired with the flavorful tomato gravy create a dance of textures and tastes in your mouth. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a wholesome, nutritious meal.
FAQ ABOUT LAUKI KOFTA CURRY
- Can I make the koftas ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the koftas and store them in an airtight container. Heat them in the gravy just before serving.
- Is this dish too spicy? The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. You can reduce the amount of red chili powder and green chilies for a milder version.
- Can I freeze the koftas? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked koftas. Thaw them before frying or baking.
- What can I serve with lauki kofta? This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan, or roti.
- Is it a kids-friendly recipe? Absolutely! Kids might enjoy the mild flavors of the koftas and the creamy tomato gravy.
NUTRITION FACTS
Lauki kofta presents a wholesome combination of vegetables and essential nutrients. The lauki contributes to hydration and digestion, while the besan adds a protein punch. The tomato gravy brings in the goodness of antioxidants like lycopene.
| Nutrition Fact |
| Per Serving Cal: 245kcal Fat: 12g Carbs: 32g Protein: 6g |
CONCLUSION
Lauki kofta is a masterpiece of Indian cuisine that brings together the simplicity of bottle gourd and the richness of spiced gravy. With its delightful taste and nutritional benefits, it’s a recipe worth adding to your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to the magic of homemade lauki kofta.
