Stuffed Bottle Gourd (Bharwa Lauki) with Paneer Masala

Stuffed Bottle Gourd (Bharwa Lauki)

Description:
Bharwa Lauki is a traditional North Indian dish where bottle gourd is stuffed with a flavorful mix of spices and paneer. This unique recipe adds a twist to regular bottle gourd dishes and makes a wonderful option for lunch or special occasions. Serve it with Tawa Paratha and Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita for a wholesome meal.

Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients:

For Stuffed Gourd:

• 1 Bottle Gourd (Lauki)
• 2 Onions, chopped
• 2 Tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Coriander Powder
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 4 tbsp Oil
• 1 tbsp Sugar
• 1 tbsp Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves)
• Salt, to taste
• 3 sprigs Coriander Leaves, finely chopped

For Paneer Masala (Stuffing):

• 1 cup Paneer (Cottage Cheese), crumbled
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1 Onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 Capsicum (Green), finely chopped
• 1 Green Chilli, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Coriander Powder
• 1 tsp Red Chilli Flakes
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp Cream

Preparation Time: 10 mins

Cooking Time: 40 mins

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Paneer Masala (Stuffing):

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
   • Add the chopped onions and sauté until they soften and turn translucent.
   • Add the crumbled paneer, salt, coriander powder, and red chilli flakes. Stir well and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and let the mixture cool. This is your paneer masala stuffing.

2. Prepare the Bottle Gourd:

   • Peel the bottle gourd and place it in a large pot filled with salted water. Cook it until the gourd is soft. Allow it to cool.
   • Once cooled, carefully scoop out the inner core of the gourd, leaving the outer shell intact for stuffing.

3. Cook the Stuffed Gourd:

   • Heat the remaining oil in a pan. Place the hollowed bottle gourd in the pan and cook, turning it occasionally, until it becomes golden brown and crisp on all sides.
   • Once the gourd is browned, stuff it with the prepared paneer masala. Cut it into 1-inch round slices.

4. Prepare the Gravy:

   • In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
   • Add chopped onions and cook until softened. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down.
   • Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and the remaining paneer masala (set aside from the stuffing). Mix well and cook for 5 minutes.
   • Using a hand blender, blend the mixture into a smooth paste. Add 1 cup of water and bring it to a simmer for 2-3 minutes.
   • Stir in sugar, kasuri methi, and the stuffed bottle gourd slices. Cook for 3 minutes to incorporate all the flavors.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish the dish with finely chopped coriander leaves and a swirl of cream.
   • Serve the Stuffed Bottle Gourd (Bharwa Lauki) with Tawa Paratha and Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita for a delightful meal.

Enjoy this unique and flavorful stuffed bottle gourd dish as part of your lunch or any festive meal!