12 Easy Steps To Make Delicious Lauki Ke Kofte

Lauki Kofta is a flavorful and comforting Indian dish made with grated bottle gourd (lauki) formed into spiced balls or patties, which are then fried until golden brown. These koftas are simmered in a rich and mildly spiced tomato-based gravy, resulting in a creamy and mildly sweet dish. The bottle gourd koftas are light and tender, absorbing the aromatic flavors of the gravy. The combination of the soft, savory koftas with the spicy, tangy sauce makes Lauki Kofta a delicious and satisfying meal, often enjoyed with rice or Indian bread.

Here's a simple recipe for Lauki Kofta:

1. Ingredients

For the Koftas:

- 1 medium-sized bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and grated

- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)

- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

- 1 tablespoon coriander leaves, chopped

- 1 cup besan (gram flour)

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

- Salt, to taste

- Oil, for frying

For the Gravy:

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed

- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

- Salt, to taste

- 1/2 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

2. Instructions

Prepare the Koftas:

Step 1- Prepare Bottle Gourd:

Squeeze the grated bottle gourd to remove excess water. This helps prevent sogginess in the koftas.

Step 2- Mix Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the grated bottle gourd, chopped green chilies, ginger, coriander leaves, besan, cumin seeds, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to form a thick batter.

Step 3- Shape Koftas:

Shape the mixture into small balls or patties, pressing them lightly to ensure they hold together.

Step 4- Fry Koftas:

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the koftas in batches until they are golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Gravy:

Step 5- Cook Onions:

In a separate pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add finely chopped onions and saut until golden brown.

Step 6- Add Spices:

Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Add tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and the oil starts separating.

Step 7- Add Spices:

Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the spices are well blended.

Step 8- Add Water:

Pour in water and bring to a simmer. Adjust the consistency of the gravy as desired.

Step 9- Finish:

Add garam masala and cook for a couple of minutes.

Combine and Serve:

Step 10- Add Koftas:

Gently add the fried koftas to the simmering gravy. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the koftas to absorb the flavors.

Step 11- Garnish:

Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.

Step 12- Serve:

Serve hot with rice, roti, or paratha.

Enjoy your Lauki Kofta!