Lauki ka Halwa\ Dudhi Halwa

Lauki or Bottle gourd has many names in local dialects like dhudhi, calabash, hulu, etc. Lauki is generally disliked by many people.

But lauki provides ample of health benefits. It is rich in vitamin B and C. It also contains minerals like sodium, iron, etc. It is good for the heart and the liver. It helps in digestion. And there are many more.

Due to all these health benefits, I try to include it in the menu in some special way. One way of consuming lauki is by extracting its juice which tastes awesome. Another way is by preparing the delicious lauki ka kofta.

Yesterday I tried this Lauki ka Halwa and that came out really awesome. Now this would be frequent on my menu card :)

Ingriedients:
Lauki\ Bottle gourd - 1 cup
Grated coconut -  half cup
Cloves - 1
Boiled Milk - 1 cup
Sugar - one third cup
Elaichi powder(Cardomom) - 1 teaspoon
Cashews - around 7-8
Ghee - 3 tablespoon
Saffron - 3-4 strands (Optional)
Khova (Optional)

Procedure:
1. Grate the bottle gourd and squeeze the excess water by pressing in between your palms. Repeat this 2-3 times, till most of the water is extracted. Do not discard this water, you can drink it as it is very healthy.
2. Take a thick kadhai and add 3 tablespoon ghee. Add the cashew nuts and roast it till it is golden brown and keep them aside.
3. In the same kadhai,  add one clove and then add the grated bottle gourd and fry for 5 mins.
4. Next add grated coconut. and fry for 5 minites.
5. Finally add the boiled milk and let the bottle gourd cook in the milk.
6. Also add the suagr and elaichi powder.
7. Keep stirring on a low flame, till the milk is absorbed by the beetroot.
8. Khova can be added optionally.
9. Garnish with dry fruits

Bottle Gourd Halwa is ready to be served.
It can be served hot or cold.

Notes:
1. Consume the lauki juice imemediately after squeezing the water else it may upset your stomach.
2. You may also like the below recipe
Lauki ka Kofta