Happy Dahi Wali Gourd Recipe (Yogurt Based Bottle Gourd Vegetable)
A delicious, simple, and healthy North Indian recipe, Happy Dahi Wali Gourd is a yogurt-based bottle gourd sabzi that combines the subtle sweetness of bottle gourd with the tangy flavor of yogurt, creating a delightful dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. This dish is diabetic-friendly, light, and makes for a nutritious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bottle Gourd (Lauki), peeled and chopped | 1-1/2 cups |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 5 leaves |
| Green Chilies, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 3 cloves |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Tomato, chopped | 1 |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/4 cup |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | As required |
| Water | As required |
| Sunflower Oil | As required |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Diabetic Friendly
Instructions:
-
Heat Oil and Temper Spices:
Start by heating a small amount of sunflower oil in a Kadai (or any deep pan). Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Allow the mustard seeds to crackle for a few seconds, releasing their aroma. -
Sauté Garlic and Onions:
Once the seeds have cracked, add the finely chopped garlic and onion to the pan. Sauté them on medium heat until the onions turn soft and translucent. -
Add Bottle Gourd (Lauki):
Add the peeled and chopped bottle gourd (lauki) to the pan. Stir the vegetables to mix well with the spices. Sprinkle in the salt and turmeric powder. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the bottle gourd to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. The bottle gourd will release some moisture and start to soften. -
Cook with Tomato and Spices:
Next, add the chopped tomato, red chili powder, and coriander powder to the pan. Mix everything thoroughly, then cover and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to meld. -
Whisk the Yogurt:
While the vegetables are cooking, take a bowl and whisk the curd (yogurt) with a little water to make it smooth and creamy. Set it aside. -
Add Yogurt to the Cooking Veggies:
Once the bottle gourd becomes tender and has cooked down a little, reduce the flame to low. Gradually add the whisked yogurt into the pan, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. The yogurt will give the dish a smooth, creamy texture and a mild tangy flavor. -
Simmer and Finish:
Stir well, and then cover the pan again. Let the dish cook for another 6 to 8 minutes on low heat until most of the liquid evaporates, and the dish thickens slightly. You should have a smooth, flavorful mixture with a creamy consistency. -
Serve:
Once cooked, switch off the flame. Serve your Happy Dahi Wali Gourd hot, garnished with fresh coriander if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with Palak Dal, Boondi Raita, and Phulka for a complete, satisfying North Indian meal.
Enjoy the Benefits:
This Happy Dahi Wali Gourd recipe is a nutritious way to enjoy bottle gourd, a vegetable known for its high water content, low calorie count, and rich fiber. The addition of yogurt adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor, making it a perfect side dish or a light main course for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s diabetic-friendly, making it an excellent option for those seeking healthy, balanced meals.
Tip: You can adjust the consistency by adding more or less water depending on how dry or saucy you prefer the dish.
Happy Cooking!
