Stuffed Gilka Recipe (Maharashtrian Style Stuffed Silk Squash)
Bring a traditional taste of Maharashtra to your table with this delightful Stuffed Gilka Recipe, also known as Maharashtrian Style Stuffed Silk Squash. This unique preparation of sponge gourd, or silk squash, is filled with a delectable mixture of roasted spices and groundnuts, giving it a savory, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the squash. This recipe is a perfect addition to your lunch spread, especially when paired with flavorful Dal Tadka, refreshing Kachumber Salad, and soft Tawa Parathas.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gilka (Sponge/Silk Squash), cut into 3-inch pieces | 6 pieces |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, chopped for garnish | As required |
| Onions, finely chopped | 2 large onions |
| Garlic cloves, crushed | 7 cloves |
| Groundnut powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Sesame powder, roasted | 2 tablespoons |
| Red Chilli powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Maharashtrian Goda Masala | 2 teaspoons |
| Jaggery, grated | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
4
Course:
Lunch
Cuisine:
Maharashtrian
Diet:
Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a medium bowl, combine the groundnut powder, sesame powder, red chilli powder, Maharashtrian goda masala, grated jaggery, turmeric powder, asafoetida, and salt.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they form a uniform mixture. Set this aside as the stuffing for the gilka.
-
Stuff the Gilka:
- Take each gilka piece and make a vertical slit down the length, ensuring you don’t cut through completely. The cut should create a pocket for the stuffing.
- Carefully spoon about 1 tablespoon of the stuffing mixture into each gilka piece, filling the slit with the flavorful mix. Ensure the stuffing is packed inside but the gilka remains intact.
-
Cook the Stuffed Gilka:
- Heat sunflower oil in a large flat-bottomed non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds (jeera) and let them crackle for a few seconds to release their aroma.
- Place the stuffed gilka in the pan, ensuring the cut side is facing up to prevent the filling from spilling out.
-
Cover and Cook:
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the stuffed gilka cook on a low flame for about 3-4 minutes.
- After 3-4 minutes, gently flip the gilka pieces and allow them to cook on the other side. Continue cooking until the gilka becomes soft and tender, but still holds its shape.
-
Add Water (if needed):
- If the gilka starts to dry out during the cooking process, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of water to the pan to aid the cooking and prevent burning. Continue cooking until the gilka is cooked through and has absorbed the flavors of the stuffing.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Once the gilka is fully cooked, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve the Stuffed Gilka hot alongside Dal Tadka, Kachumber Salad, and Tawa Paratha for a complete and delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions:
For a truly authentic Maharashtrian experience, serve this Stuffed Gilka recipe with some of the following dishes:
- Dal Tadka: A hearty lentil dish seasoned with aromatic spices, tempering (tadka), and ghee, which complements the subtle flavors of the gilka perfectly.
- Kachumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber, tomato, and onion salad with a hint of lime and green chilies that adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the meal.
- Tawa Paratha: Soft, whole wheat flatbreads cooked on a tawa (griddle) and brushed with ghee, perfect for scooping up the gilka and stuffing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Gilka:
- Choose the right squash: Make sure to use fresh gilka that are tender and not overripe. Overripe squash can have a bitter taste and may not hold up well during cooking.
- Roast your spices: For a more intense flavor, lightly roast the groundnut powder and sesame seeds before grinding. This enhances the nutty flavor of the stuffing.
- Mind the jaggery: The jaggery in the stuffing balances the spicy flavors of the goda masala and red chilli powder. You can adjust the amount of jaggery based on your preference for sweetness.
Variations:
-
Bharli Bhendi (Stuffed Okra):
- If you love stuffed vegetables, try using this same stuffing mix for bhendi (okra). Slit the okra and stuff it with the same spice mixture before shallow frying until crispy.
-
Bharli Vangi (Stuffed Eggplant):
- Small baby eggplants can also be stuffed using this flavorful mixture. The combination of roasted sesame, groundnuts, and spices works beautifully with eggplant, making for a hearty dish.
-
Vegan Option:
- This recipe is already vegan-friendly! However, if you are serving with sides like dal tadka, make sure to use oil instead of ghee to keep the entire meal plant-based.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mix in advance and store it in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This makes it easier to prepare the dish quickly when needed.
2. What can I use instead of goda masala?
- If you don’t have goda masala, you can substitute with garam masala. However, the taste will differ slightly since goda masala has a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors.
3. Can I bake the stuffed gilka instead of cooking on the stove?
- Absolutely! You can place the stuffed gilka on a baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through for even cooking.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Gilka is a perfect example of how simple, traditional ingredients can be transformed into a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a fan of Maharashtrian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this recipe offers a balanced mix of spicy, sweet, and savory notes, all packed inside tender pieces of silk squash. With minimal preparation and an explosion of taste, this dish will surely become a household favorite. Pair it with your favorite Indian sides for a wholesome meal that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Maharashtra!
