Lauki Halwa Recipe: How to Make Mouthwatering Bottle Gourd Halwa at Home
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Lauki Halwa, a classic Indian dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of bottle gourd (lauki), the richness of milk, and the fragrance of saffron. Known by various names like Doodhi Halwa or Bottle Gourd Halwa, this dish is a favorite across India, especially during festive occasions or as a comforting treat. In this step-by-step guide, learn how to make this traditional dessert at home, delighting your taste buds with every spoonful.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bottle Gourd (Lauki), peeled and grated | 1 medium-sized bottle gourd (lauki) |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup (adjustable as per taste) |
| Ghee | 1/4 cup |
| Cashew Nuts (broken) | 1/4 cup |
| Sultana Raisins | 1 tablespoon |
| Saffron Strands | A pinch (optional, for aroma and color) |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instructions
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Prepare the Bottle Gourd:
Start by peeling the bottle gourd (lauki). Grate it finely using a grater or a food processor to get the perfect texture for the halwa. Set the grated bottle gourd aside and gather all other ingredients. -
Sauté the Lauki:
In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee on medium heat. Add the grated bottle gourd to the pan and sauté for about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that the lauki softens and the raw smell disappears, allowing its natural flavor to develop. -
Simmer with Milk and Sugar:
Once the lauki is tender, pour in 1 cup of milk and add the sugar. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the sugar completely. Let this simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the milk will reduce and thicken, and the bottle gourd will absorb the sweetness. This process may take around 15-20 minutes, so be patient. -
Add Saffron and Continue Cooking:
When the milk has reduced to a creamy consistency and the bottle gourd is fully cooked, add a pinch of saffron strands for that aromatic touch and golden hue. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes to let the saffron infuse into the halwa. -
Prepare the Garnish:
While the lauki halwa is simmering, take a small pan and heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat. Add the broken cashew nuts and sauté them until they turn golden brown and crisp. Also, add the sultana raisins and sauté for another minute until they puff up. Remove from heat and set them aside. -
Finish the Lauki Halwa:
Once the lauki halwa has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, remove it from the heat. Transfer the halwa to a serving dish and garnish it with the crispy cashews and plump raisins. If desired, add a few more saffron strands on top for an extra touch of elegance. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Lauki Halwa can be served either warm or chilled. If you prefer it warm, enjoy it right away. If you’re preparing it in advance, let it cool and refrigerate it for up to a week. The flavors will only deepen as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for special occasions or family meals.
Tips and Variations
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Adjust the Sweetness: You can easily modify the sweetness level of this dish by adjusting the quantity of sugar to suit your taste. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by half or substitute with a natural sweetener like jaggery or honey.
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Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk or coconut milk and use coconut oil instead of ghee for sautéing.
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Nuts and Dry Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or pistachios. You can also add chopped dates or dried figs for extra richness and texture.
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Saffron Substitute: If you don’t have saffron, a pinch of cardamom powder or a few drops of rose water can be added for an equally delightful fragrance.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200-250 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Calcium | 120mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Note: The nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
Why You’ll Love Lauki Halwa
Lauki Halwa is not just a dessert, but a comfort food that blends simplicity with elegance. The bottle gourd, often overlooked in savory dishes, transforms into a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth treat when cooked with milk, sugar, and ghee. Whether you serve it at a festive celebration or as a healthy dessert after a hearty meal, Lauki Halwa is sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to include more vegetables in your diet while indulging your sweet tooth!
Enjoy this mouthwatering, traditional Indian treat and savor the unique flavors of Lauki Halwa.
