Lauki Kofta

This whole curry is mildly spiced and has a good flavor and slight tang due to tomatoes. The koftas along with the curry taste really yummy.

Ingredients

• Bottle gourd (lauki/doodhi) 750 gram
• Salt                                         to taste
• Gram flour (besan)                 5 tsp
• Red chilli powder                 1/2 tsp
• Oil                                         to deep fry

For gravy

• Oil 3 tsp
• Onion ,chopped 2 medium
• Turmeric powder 3/4 tsp
• Coriander powder   1 1/2 tsp
• Garam masala          1 tsp
• Red chilli powder 3/4 tsp
• Tomato (puree)  5 medium
• Salt                          to taste
• Coriander leaves 2 tsp

Method

For the koftas

Peel and grate the bottle gourd. Squeeze to remove excess water (keep the juice, we will use this juice in the curry). Add the salt, gram flour, red chilli powder and mix well. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into round koftas. Heat sufficient oil in a kadai and deep-fry the koftas, in small batches, for two to three minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside. Drain on absorbent paper and set aside. 

For Gravy

Heat three tablespoons oil in a non stick pan, add the onions and sauté until light golden brown. Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder and red chilli powder. Continue to sauté on moderate heat for one minute, stirring continuously. Add the tomato puree and bottle gourd water and continue to sauté till the oil surfaces. Add two cups of water and bring to a boil. Add the salt, lower the heat and simmer for five minutes. Keep the gravy hot. Add half the coriander leaves and mix well. While serving arrange the koftas on the serving plate, pour the gravy over them. Serve garnished with remaining coriander leaves.