Lauki "घीया" या "लौकी", also known as bottle gourd, is a light green vegetable with a soft texture and subtle, neutral flavor. Common in Indian kitchens, it is favored for its ability to absorb spices and blend seamlessly into a variety of preparations. From everyday dishes like lauki sabzi and lauki kofta to soups, stews, and sweets such as lauki halwa, this versatile vegetable adapts to both savory and sweet recipes. Lauki is often used in summer meals due to its high water content and gentle taste. Its cylindrical shape and pale skin make it easy to identify and prepare. Whether diced, grated, or pureed, lauki is a reliable ingredient in home-cooked meals, festive menus, and regional delicacies.
 
Recipe You Should Definitely Try:
 
How to Make Lauki Sabzi 
 
 Ingredients:
 
Bottle gourd (lauki/doodhi) – 2 cups, peeled & cubed
Tomato – 1 large, chopped
Green chili – 1, slit
Ginger – 1 tsp, grated
Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
Red chili powder – ½ tsp
Coriander powder – 1 tsp
Salt – to taste
Sugar – a pinch (optional, enhances flavor)
Cumin seeds – ½ tsp
Hing (asafoetida) – a pinch
Oil or ghee – 1½ tbsp
Water – as needed (about ½ to ¾ cup)
Fresh coriander leaves – chopped, for garnish
 
 Method:
 
1. Heat tempering:
Heat oil or ghee in a kadhai or pressure cooker.
Add cumin seeds and hing. Let them sizzle.
2. Add aromatics:
Add grated ginger and green chili. Sauté for 30 seconds.
Add chopped tomatoes. Cook until soft and mushy.
3. Add spices:
Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, salt, and a pinch of sugar.
Sauté for 1 minute until masala blends well.
4. Add lauki:
Add chopped lauki and mix to coat well with the masala.
Add ½ to ¾ cup water depending on desired consistency.
5. Cook until soft:
Pressure cooker: Close lid and cook for 2 whistles, then let pressure release naturally.
Pan method: Cover and cook for 15–20 mins on medium flame, stirring occasionally.
6. Garnish and serve:
Once cooked, mash slightly if desired for a softer texture.
Add chopped coriander and mix.
 
 Pairs With:
 
Phulka / roti
Plain rice with ghee
Moong dal for a complete light meal