Doodh Dudhi Recipe (Bottle Gourd in Milk Curry)
A Healthy and Flavorful Indian Dish
Introduction
Doodh Dudhi, or Bottle Gourd in Milk Curry, is a popular dish in Indian cuisine that combines the mild taste of bottle gourd (lauki) with the richness of milk and traditional Indian spices. This comforting curry is perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a nutritious and low-fat alternative to heavier dishes. With its delicate flavor and creamy texture, Doodh Dudhi makes a delicious accompaniment to phulkas (Indian flatbreads) or whole wheat lachha parathas.
Ideal for diabetic-friendly diets, this recipe is not only light but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the bottle gourd. The sweetness from the milk and the aromatic spices make this dish an unforgettable experience for the palate.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Bottle gourd (lauki) | 1 medium-sized |
Cumin seeds (jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
Turmeric powder (haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
Red chilli powder | 1 tablespoon |
Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
Milk (low-fat) | 1/2 liter |
Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
Sunflower oil | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | To taste |
Fresh coriander leaves (dhania) | 3 sprigs, finely chopped |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Diabetic-Friendly
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bottle Gourd (Lauki)
Begin by peeling the bottle gourd (lauki). Cut it into cubes, semi-circles, or round slices based on your preference. The soft texture of the bottle gourd will absorb the spices and milk, creating a creamy dish. -
Heat the Oil and Temper the Spices
In a kadhai (a traditional Indian wok), heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 tablespoon of cumin seeds. Wait for them to crackle and release their aromatic essence. -
Add Spices
Once the cumin seeds crackle, add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon of red chilli powder, and salt to taste. Stir the spices together and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to release their fragrance and flavors. -
Cook the Bottle Gourd
Add the prepared bottle gourd slices to the kadhai. Mix the gourd thoroughly with the spices to ensure it is well-coated with the masala. Cover the kadhai with a lid and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the bottle gourd to soften and become tender. -
Add Milk
Once the bottle gourd has softened, pour in half of the 1/2 liter of milk. Stir gently and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. The milk will begin to evaporate and combine with the spices to form a creamy base. -
Simmer and Final Cooking
After the milk has evaporated, add the remaining milk to the dish. Stir again and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken and the bottle gourd to fully absorb the flavors. The milk will transform into a rich and creamy gravy that envelops the bottle gourd slices. -
Sweeten the Dish
Add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to the curry to balance the flavors. Stir well to dissolve the sugar into the gravy. -
Garnish and Serve
Once the bottle gourd is fully cooked and the curry has thickened to your desired consistency, take the dish off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. -
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Doodh Dudhi (Bottle Gourd in Milk Curry) with hot phulkas, whole wheat lachha parathas, or even steamed rice for a wholesome meal. This curry pairs well with traditional Indian breads and complements a variety of side dishes.
Tips for Perfect Doodh Dudhi:
- For a richer flavor, you can use full-fat milk instead of low-fat milk, though the dish will become slightly heavier.
- If you prefer a spicier version, you can adjust the quantity of red chilli powder or add green chilies.
- Make sure to cook the bottle gourd until it becomes soft, as this is key to achieving the perfect texture in the curry.
- You can also add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) while tempering the cumin seeds for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 100 |
Protein | 4g |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Fat | 4g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sugar | 3g |
Sodium | 150mg |
Calcium | 150mg |
Iron | 2mg |
Doodh Dudhi is a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while savoring the goodness of milk and traditional Indian spices. With its creamy texture, flavorful spices, and gentle sweetness, this curry will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for a family lunch or a weekday dinner, it is both comforting and nutritious.