Lauki Ka Kofta is a delicious North Indian curry made with bottle gourd (lauki) dumplings cooked in a rich, spiced tomato-based gravy. This dish pairs well with roti, naan, or rice.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Kofta:
- 2 cups bottle gourd (lauki), grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
- Oil, for deep frying
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh cream (optional)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta
- Squeeze excess water from the grated lauki.
- In a bowl, mix lauki, salt, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin powder, and gram flour.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Heat oil in a pan and deep fry the koftas until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add pureed tomatoes and cook until oil separates.
- Mix in turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- Add water and let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Add the fried koftas to the simmering gravy.
- Stir in fresh cream (if using) and let it cook for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.
- Enjoy your flavorful Lauki Ka Kofta!
Tips for Perfect Koftas
- For Crispier Koftas: Add a little rice flour or cornflour to the batter.
- For a Richer Gravy: Use cashew paste or yogurt instead of cream.
- For a Healthier Version: Air-fry or shallow-fry the koftas instead of deep-frying.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
Lauki Ka Kofta is a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for any meal!