Loki Kofta, a delightful Indian dish, combines the goodness of grated bottle gourd (loki) with flavorful spices and a rich gravy. This vegetarian recipe offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition, making it a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. The koftas, made from grated bottle gourd and besan (gram flour), are deep-fried to a golden crisp, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. Paired with a luscious tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices, Loki Kofta promises a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether served with steamed rice or your favorite Indian bread, this dish is sure to be a hit at any dining table.
Ingredients
For Kofta:
- 2 cups grated bottle gourd (loki)
- 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
- 2 tablespoons rice flour
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
For Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions
- Squeeze out excess water from the grated bottle gourd (loki) and transfer it to a mixing bowl.
- Add besan, rice flour, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to the grated bottle gourd. Mix well to form a smooth dough-like mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan for frying the koftas.
- Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into round koftas.
- Fry the koftas in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels. Set aside.
- For the gravy, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a separate pan.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears.
- Add tomato puree, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Cook the masala until the oil separates from the sides.
- Pour in water and bring the gravy to a simmer.
- Add the fried koftas to the gravy and let them simmer for a few minutes, allowing the koftas to absorb the flavors of the gravy.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or Indian bread of your choice.
Loki Kofta is a must-try recipe that brings together simplicity and complexity in every mouthful. The tender koftas soaked in the flavorful gravy create a harmony of textures and flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a rewarding cooking experience and a delicious meal for your loved ones. With its wholesome ingredients and aromatic spices, Loki Kofta not only delights the senses but also nourishes the body. Add this recipe to your culinary repertoire and savor the joy of homemade Indian cuisine at its finest.
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