Simple Lauki Ka Kofta Recipe: Perfect Weekend Lunch Dish

If you've been avoiding lauki, also known as bottle gourd, thinking it's boring and tasteless, this recipe is for you. Transform this humble vegetable into a delicious and satisfying meal with a basic and simple kofta recipe. Made with grated lauki, besan, and a blend of spices, this dish is ideal for a weekend lunch at home.

Ingredients for Lauki Ka Kofta

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this flavorful dish:

2 cups grated lauki (bottle gourd)
2–3 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
1 green chilli, finely chopped
½ teaspoon red chilli powder
½ teaspoon haldi (turmeric powder)
Salt to taste
Oil for frying
2 onions, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
½ teaspoon haldi (turmeric powder)
1 teaspoon red chilli powder
1 teaspoon dhania (coriander) powder
½ teaspoon garam masala
2 tablespoons fresh cream
2 tablespoons oil
Coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make Lauki Ka Kofta at home:

Step 1: Begin by peeling and grating the lauki. Squeeze out the excess water thoroughly to ensure the koftas hold their shape.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated lauki with besan, salt, green chilli, red chilli powder, and haldi. Mix well and shape the mixture into small, round balls.
Step 3: Heat oil in a kadhai or deep frying pan over medium heat. Deep fry the kofta balls until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 4: In the same kadhai, add 2 tablespoons of oil. Sauté the chopped onions until they become golden brown and fragrant.
Step 5: Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears. Then, stir in the tomato puree and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
Step 6: Incorporate all the dry spices—haldi, red chilli powder, dhania powder, and salt. Cook the masala for 2-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Pour in water as needed to achieve your desired gravy consistency. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Gently add the fried kofta balls to the gravy and bring it to a boil.
Step 8: Finish by garnishing with fresh cream, a sprinkle of garam masala, and chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with roti or steamed rice for a complete meal.

This Lauki Ka Kofta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and tasty dish that breaks the monotony of everyday meals. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend lunch, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.