Health
Lauki ki Barfi, also known as Bottle Gourd Fudge, is a delightful Indian sweet that’s both healthy and delicious. Made with grated bottle gourd (lauki), milk, sugar, and ghee, this dessert is often prepared during festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Navratri, and Diwali. Its soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture combined with the aroma of cardamom and richness of dry fruits makes it a favorite among sweet lovers.
If you’re looking for an easy homemade dessert that’s also nutritious, Lauki ki Barfi is a great choice. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make this traditional sweet at home.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups grated bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and seeds removed
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 cups full cream milk
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon green cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
- 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
- 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios (optional)
- Few strands of saffron (optional)
Step-by-Step Method:
1. Preparing the Lauki:
Choose a fresh, tender lauki. Peel the skin and remove the seeds from the center. Grate it finely using a hand grater. Place the grated lauki in a clean cloth or sieve and gently squeeze out excess water. This helps the barfi to set well later.
2. Cooking the Lauki:
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a non-stick pan or a heavy-bottomed kadhai. Add the grated lauki and sauté it on medium heat for about 5–7 minutes. You will notice the raw smell fading and the lauki becoming soft.
3. Adding Milk:
Pour in the milk and mix well. Let it cook on a medium flame until the milk starts reducing and thickening. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom. This process may take around 15–20 minutes.
4. Adding Sugar and Flavor:
Once the milk has almost evaporated and the mixture thickens, add sugar. Stir well. The mixture will loosen up a bit as the sugar melts. Keep stirring until it thickens again and starts leaving the sides of the pan.
Add cardamom powder at this stage for flavor. You can also mix in some grated coconut and chopped nuts if you like a richer texture.
5. Setting the Barfi:
Grease a plate or tray with a little ghee. Pour the cooked mixture into it and spread it evenly using a spatula. Press it gently to level the surface. Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours to help it set completely.
6. Cutting and Serving:
Once set, cut the barfi into squares or diamond shapes. You can garnish with silver leaf and a few chopped nuts for a festive look.
Tips:
- Use tender lauki for best taste and texture.
- You can replace sugar with jaggery for a healthier option.
- Store the barfi in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Conclusion:
Lauki ki Barfi is a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy vegetable in a sweet form. It’s perfect for festive celebrations or as a homemade sweet to surprise your family. Try this simple and rewarding recipe in your kitchen today!
