Lauki Aloo Sabzi (Bottle Gourd and Potato Curry) Recipe
This Lauki Aloo Sabzi, a traditional Indian dish, brings together the flavors of bottle gourd (lauki) and potato (aloo) cooked in a rich blend of spices. It is an ideal vegetarian meal for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with roti (phulka) or rice and a cooling side of raita. The dish offers a delicious balance of mild spices and the earthy taste of vegetables, making it both comforting and healthy.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo), peeled and chopped | 3 medium-sized |
| Bottle Gourd (Lauki), peeled and chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 2 |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Fresh Ginger, grated | 1-inch piece |
| Green Chilies, chopped | 2 |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt to taste | As required |
| Kalonji (Nigella Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cooking Oil | As required (for sautéing) |
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add kalonji (nigella seeds) and let it cook for 10 seconds, allowing the seeds to crackle and release their aroma. |
| 2 | Add finely chopped onion and grated ginger to the cooker. Sauté until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 3–4 minutes. |
| 3 | Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they soften. Stir occasionally. |
| 4 | Now, add the chopped potatoes and bottle gourd to the cooker. Mix well with the sautéed ingredients. |
| 5 | Sprinkle turmeric powder, coriander powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices. |
| 6 | Add about 1 ½ cups of water to the cooker. Mix everything together, ensuring that the spices and vegetables are well combined. |
| 7 | Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. After the second whistle, reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 3–4 minutes. |
| 8 | Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. Stir the sabzi to mix the vegetables and adjust the salt if needed. |
| 9 | Serve the Lauki Aloo Sabzi hot with a side of roti (phulka) or steamed rice and a refreshing spinach raita for a complete meal. |
Cooking Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies depending on your preference for heat. You can skip the chilies for a milder version.
- Texture: If you prefer a slightly drier curry, reduce the amount of water added or cook it for a little longer after releasing the pressure.
- Flavor Boost: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can add a nice tangy freshness to the dish.
- Variation: You can also add peas or carrots to the dish for extra flavor and color.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 210mg |
| Vitamin A | 10% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 20% of Daily Value |
Why You’ll Love Lauki Aloo Sabzi:
This hearty, flavorful dish not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a nutrient-packed, low-calorie option perfect for a wholesome vegetarian meal. The bottle gourd, rich in water content, is excellent for digestion, while the combination of spices elevates the taste, giving you a fulfilling dish that is both light and comforting.
The beauty of Lauki Aloo Sabzi lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can enjoy it as part of a family dinner or even take it as a lunch box meal. Its rich flavors, combined with the natural goodness of vegetables, make it an absolute favorite for anyone who enjoys a wholesome vegetarian dish.
Serving Suggestions:
For a complete Indian meal experience, serve Lauki Aloo Sabzi with:
- Phulka (Indian flatbread) or Jeera Rice (cumin-flavored rice)
- Palak Raita (spinach yogurt raita) to cool down the spices and enhance the overall meal.
- Add a side of papad or pickle for an extra crunch and flavor.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday meal or cooking for a special occasion, Lauki Aloo Sabzi is bound to be a crowd-pleaser, nourishing and delicious!
