Recipe

Lauki Stew
[लौकी स्टू]

Recipe Contributed By: Anupriya Sinha, Pune

 Ingredients

Lauki (Bottle gourd) – 1 small (Peeled, washed and cubed)
Potato – 3-4 small (peeled, washed and halved)
Onion – 2 medium (chopped in cubes)
Green chilli - 2 or as desired (chopped)
Mustard oil – 2 tbsp
Bay leaf – 1
Dry red chilli – 1-2
Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
Whole Black pepper – 10-12
Green cardamom – 3-4
Cloves – 3-4
Cinnamon – 2 pcs (1” pcs)
Ginger (julienned) – 1 tsp
Garlic – 3-4 cloves (minced or julienned)
Coriander powder – 1 tsp
Salt – as per taste
Turmeric powder – 1/8 tsp
Fresh cream (alternatively coconut milk) – 1 tbsp

 Method of Preparation

1. Heat oil in a pressure cooker and add the whole spices.

2. Fry for 2-3 secs and add lauki, potato, onion and green chilies. Saute for 1 minute.

3. Add the other ingredients, except cream, mix and sauté for 2-3 minutes.

4. Add 2 tbsp of water, mix and cook under pressure, on high, for 5 minutes.

5. Let the cooker cool on its own. Once pressure is released, open the lid and add cream.

6. Mix and simmer for 4-5 minutes, till you get the desired consistency of gravy.

7. Remove from heat and serve hot with roti or paratha.

 Notes and Tips