Lauki ka Halwa

To make Lauki ka Halwa, start by grating 1 kg of bottle gourd and setting it aside. In a pan, heat 50 g of ghee over medium heat and add the grated bottle gourd, sautéing it for a few minutes until it softens. Next, pour in 1 liter of milk and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the milk thickens. Then, add 200 g of sugar and 1 tsp of cardamom powder, stirring well. Continue cooking until the halwa reaches your desired consistency, and finally, garnish with 50 g of mixed nuts before serving.

Yes, Lauki ka Halwa is a vegetarian dessert as it is made with bottle gourd, milk, and sugar, along with ghee and nuts. It is a great option for those following a vegetarian diet.

If you want to substitute ghee in Lauki ka Halwa, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will provide a rich flavor to the dessert.

To store leftover Lauki ka Halwa, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, you can reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened too much.

Lauki ka Halwa pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian dishes. It can be served as a dessert after a spicy meal, or alongside other sweets like Gulab Jamun or Rasgulla. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Puri or Paratha.