By Suprita Mitter
November 11, 2024
Lauki ka kofta is a delightful North Indian dish where tender, spiced bottle gourd dumplings are simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato-based gravy. This comforting curry pairs beautifully with rice or roti, offering a blend of mild spices and savoury flavours.
1 medium lauki (bottle gourd) ½ cup gram flour (besan) 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste ½ tsp cumin powder ½ tsp red chilli powder Salt Oil
2 tbsp oil 1 tsp cumin seeds 1 onion 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste 2 tomatoes ½ tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp coriander powder ½ tsp garam masala Salt Fresh coriander leaves
Grate the lauki and squeeze out excess water. In a mixing bowl, combine grated lauki, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix well to form a thick batter.
Take small portions of the batter, shape into balls, and deep-fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato puree, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the oil starts to separate.
Add about 1 cup of water and bring the gravy to a boil. Add garam masala and mix well.
Add the koftas to the gravy and let simmer for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.