Aal Ke Kofte (Bottle Gourd Fritters in Spicy Gravy) Recipe
This delicious and hearty Rajasthani recipe brings the warmth and earthiness of traditional Indian spices together with soft, golden bottle gourd fritters. The dish is packed with flavors, perfect to pair with Tawa Parathas or Lauki Raita for an unforgettable meal. Let’s dive into the details for this delectable Aal Ke Kofte recipe, carefully crafted for you!
Ingredients
| Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| For the Koftas (Fritters) | Bottle gourd (lauki), grated | 250 grams |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1/2 cup | |
| Red chilli powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Green chillies, finely chopped | 2 | |
| Salt | As required | |
| Water | As required | |
| Sunflower oil (for deep frying) | As required | |
| For the Gravy | Sunflower oil | As required |
| Bay leaf (tej patta) | 2 | |
| Black cardamom (badi elaichi) | 2 | |
| Cinnamon stick (dalchini) | 1/2 inch | |
| Ginger garlic paste | 1 tablespoon | |
| Onion paste | 2 onions | |
| Red chilli powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Turmeric powder (haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Coriander powder (dhania) | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt | As required | |
| Curd (dahi/yogurt) | 1/2 cup | |
| Water | As required | |
| Coriander leaves, finely chopped (for garnish) | 2 sprigs |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Vitamin C | 20 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Koftas (Fritters)
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated bottle gourd, gram flour, red chilli powder, finely chopped green chillies, and salt. Mix thoroughly to blend all ingredients well. Add a little water if needed to bring the mixture together.
- Shape and Fry: Take portions of the mixture and shape them into small, round fritters (pakoras). In a deep frying pan, heat enough sunflower oil for frying. Fry the fritters until they turn golden brown on both sides.
- Drain and Set Aside: Remove the fried koftas and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining mixture, and set the koftas aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
- Heat Oil and Add Whole Spices: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat sunflower oil over medium flame. Add bay leaves, black cardamom, and cinnamon stick, and sauté for about a minute to release their aroma.
- Add Ginger Garlic Paste: Add the ginger garlic paste to the pan, cooking until the raw aroma disappears, which will take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Onion Paste: Add the onion paste and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paste turns golden brown and fragrant.
- Incorporate Spices: Add the red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt to taste. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the spices to blend and roast well in the oil.
- Add Curd and Water: Lower the heat and gently stir in the curd, mixing well to avoid curdling. Add water as needed to create a medium-thick consistency for the gravy, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Finish and Serve
- Simmer Gravy: Allow the gravy to simmer on low heat until it thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
- Add Koftas to Gravy: Carefully add the fried koftas to the gravy and let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Aal Ke Kofte with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with Tawa Parathas or Lauki Raita for a perfect Rajasthani-style dinner.
Enjoy this authentic and flavorful dish with family and friends!
