Lauki Kheer (Bottle Gourd Kheer) Recipe
Description:
Lauki Kheer, also known as Bottle Gourd Kheer, is a wholesome and flavorful Indian dessert. Made from the nutritious bottle gourd (dudhi), which is packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A and C, this kheer offers both taste and health benefits. The creamy texture of milk, combined with the aromatic cardamom powder and rich dry fruits, makes it a perfect treat to serve after a hearty meal or during special festivals. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that brings comfort and warmth with every bite.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Bottle gourd (grated) | 1 ½ cups |
Milk | 2 cups |
Sugar | ½ cup |
Cardamom powder | ¾ teaspoon |
Dry fruits (cashews, raisins, almonds) | A few pieces (to your preference) |
Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation & Cooking Time
Time | Duration |
---|---|
Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
Total Time | 35 minutes |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bottle Gourd:
Begin by washing and peeling the bottle gourd (lauki). Grate it finely using a box grater. This will help it cook faster and absorb the flavors better. -
Heat the Milk:
In a saucepan, add 2 cups of milk and heat it on medium flame. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. -
Cook the Grated Gourd:
Meanwhile, heat a teaspoon of ghee in a separate pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is warm, add the grated bottle gourd. Stir it continuously, allowing it to cook and soften. This should take about 5-7 minutes. -
Combine Milk and Gourd:
Once the gourd is soft, add the heated milk into the pan. Mix it well with the grated bottle gourd. Reduce the flame to low and allow the milk to simmer. Stir the mixture every few minutes to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom. -
Add Sugar and Cardamom Powder:
Once the milk thickens, add the sugar and cardamom powder. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Let the kheer simmer for another 5-7 minutes. -
Add Dry Fruits:
Stir in the dry fruits such as cashews, raisins, and almonds. You can slightly toast the dry fruits in ghee before adding them to the kheer, or add them as is for added texture and flavor. -
Final Touches:
Once the sugar is fully dissolved and the kheer has reached a creamy consistency, turn off the heat. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with more dry fruits on top. Serve the Lauki Kheer warm or chilled, depending on your preference. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, festivals, or any special occasion.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Lauki Kheer as a dessert after a traditional Indian meal for a delightful and refreshing end to the meal.
- It can be made during festive occasions like Diwali, Navratri, or Ganesh Chaturthi to offer something healthy yet delicious to your guests.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 150-180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 35-40 g |
Protein | 3-4 g |
Fat | 5-6 g |
Fiber | 2-3 g |
Sugars | 20-22 g |
Lauki Kheer is not only rich in taste but also a nourishing dessert that you can indulge in without any guilt. Perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a low-calorie yet sweet treat!