Lauki Moongphali Soup (Bottle Gourd and Peanut Soup)
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bottle Gourd (Lauki) | 200 grams |
| Green Chili | 1 |
| Ginger (small pieces) | 1 small piece |
| Roasted Peanuts (peeled) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Rajgira Flour (Amaranth) | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mint Leaves | 4 leaves |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Cream (for garnish) | As needed |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Soup Base:
Begin by chopping the bottle gourd (lauki) into small cubes. Add the chopped lauki, green chili, ginger, roasted peanuts, and a pinch of salt into a pressure cooker. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and cook for 2 whistles or until the lauki becomes soft and tender. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
In a separate pan, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil on low heat. Add the Rajgira flour (amaranth flour) and roast it gently. Be sure not to over-roast the flour; it should just turn slightly golden. -
Blend the Soup:
Once the lauki and peanuts are cooked, blend the mixture using a hand blender or in a regular blender until smooth. This will give your soup a creamy texture. -
Add Mint and Spices:
Tear the mint leaves with your hands and add them to the soup. Also, sprinkle in some black pepper powder to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 2–3 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat, and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with a swirl of cream and a few more mint leaves for a fresh, aromatic touch. -
Serving Suggestions:
This Lauki Moongphali Soup makes a wonderful side dish, perfect for serving before your main course. For a wholesome and healthy meal, you can serve it alongside a bean sprout and corn salad. Enjoy your nourishing and flavorful soup hot, especially during colder months!
Health Benefits:
Lauki (Bottle Gourd) is known for its cooling properties and is excellent for hydration and digestive health. The addition of peanuts provides a rich source of protein and healthy fats, making this soup both delicious and nutritious. Rajgira flour adds a gluten-free component to the dish, perfect for those on a gluten-free diet. The mint leaves not only enhance the flavor but also offer soothing properties for the stomach.
Tips:
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a little more Rajgira flour while blending.
- For extra richness, you can increase the cream used for garnish.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or less black pepper or chili.
This Lauki Moongphali Soup is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines the mild sweetness of bottle gourd with the earthy richness of peanuts, making it an ideal addition to your meal.
