Lauki (bottle gourd) is one of those vegetables that doesn’t get enough love, even though it’s full of water and fibre that keeps your digestion on track. Yes, no more constipation, acidity or bloating! But to be honest, most people frown at the mention of lauki. Well, not anymore! We have a wonderful recipe for lauki paratha that will change your mind. There are plenty of parathas made in Indian kitchens, but lauki paratha? This is something completely different. Not only is it extremely healthy, but it also tastes so unique that you will go crazy for it! There are two ways to make it – stuffed or unstuffed. The unstuffed one is super easy to make: just grate the lauki, mix it with spices and flour, and you’re done. But the stuffed one? This one is a little trickier.
But don’t worry – we have some smart hacks that will make the stuffed version a breeze! Ready? Let’s take a look at these brilliant tips.
Read this also: Weight Loss: 5 Delicious Lauki Recipes That Can Help You Lose Weight
Here Are 6 Brilliant Tips To Make The Most Delicious Lauki Paratha:
1. Grate the lauki (bottle gourd) like a pro
First, you need to grate the gourd. Use the coarse side of your grater to get the right texture for the stuffing. If your gourd has large seeds, take them out and throw them away—they are not suitable for this recipe.
2. Squeeze out all the water
Bottle gourd contains a lot of water, and this can ruin your parathas. Here’s how: After grating it, sprinkle some salt on it and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will draw out the excess water. Once done, squeeze it well. Bonus tip: Save the water to knead the dough—it’s full of nutrients!
3. Mix the flour correctly
Now, take some flour, add salt, ajwain, kasuri methi and a pinch of semolina to make it crispy. Knead the dough with bottle gourd water- trust us, this makes the paratha even healthier! Let the dough rest for at least 10 minutes before you start rolling.
4. Prepare the bottle gourd stuffing
Now it’s time to add the spices! Add chopped onions, green chillies, red chilli powder, salt, fresh coriander and a pinch of asafoetida to your grated bottle gourd. Note: the salt and onions will release more water, so squeeze the mixture well one more time before stuffing. Check the salt level too-you don’t want to make the stuffing bland!
5. Add roasted gram flour to the mixture
If your stuffing still has some water in it, you will have trouble rolling out the parathas. No problem! Just add some roasted gram flour-it will absorb the excess moisture. Don’t have gram flour? A little wheat flour will also do the trick.
6. Roll and cook like a boss
Take a small ball of dough, roll it out a little, put the bottle gourd stuffing in the centre and fold it all around. Roll it out gently and then cook on a hot pan with some ghee. Cook till both sides are golden and crispy. Serve your hot, delicious parathas with raita, chutney or curry to make a great meal!
Now you are all set to make this super delicious and nutritious Lauki Paratha at home!
