Lauki ki Kheer

Lauki ki Kheer is a delightful dessert that is traditionally prepared during the Navratras fasting period in Indian households. This creamy and aromatic kheer is made from grated bottle gourd (lauki), simmered in milk and flavored with fragrant spices. It is a perfect sweet treat to indulge in while adhering to the dietary restrictions of the Navratras. Lauki ki Kheer not only satisfies the sweet cravings but also provides a nourishing and wholesome dessert option during the fasting period. Its light and comforting texture make it a popular choice for offering prayers and breaking the fast during this auspicious time.

Crafting Lauki ki Kheer requires patience and attention to detail to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The gentle sweetness of bottle gourd blends harmoniously with the richness of milk and the warmth of aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron. Whether served warm or chilled, Lauki ki Kheer is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more. It’s a celebration of flavors and traditions, making it a cherished dessert during the auspicious Navratras.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams bottle gourd, peeled and grated (लौकी)
• 1 liter full-fat milk (दूध)
• 1/2 cup sugar (चीनी)
• 4-5 green cardamom pods, crushed (हरी इलायची)
• A pinch of saffron strands (केसर)
• Chopped nuts for garnish (कटा हुआ मेवा)
• Ghee for frying nuts (घी)

Step-wise Process:

• Heat ghee in a pan and fry the chopped nuts until golden brown. Set aside for garnish.
• In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil.
• Add the grated bottle gourd to the boiling milk and simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Cook until the bottle gourd is soft and the milk reduces to about half its original quantity, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
• Add sugar, crushed cardamom pods, and saffron strands to the kheer. Mix well and simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and let the kheer cool down to room temperature.
• Garnish with fried nuts and serve the Lauki ki Kheer warm or chilled.

Number of Servings:

This recipe yields approximately 4-5 servings.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes

Important Points to Keep in Mind:

• Use fresh and tender bottle gourd for best results.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference.
• Stir the kheer frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

How to Serve the Lauki ki Kheer:

Lauki ki Kheer can be served warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts. It is often enjoyed as a dessert during the Navratras fasting period or as a sweet treat on special occasions.

Final Thoughts:

Lauki ki Kheer is a comforting and nourishing dessert that adds a touch of sweetness to the Navratras fasting menu. Its creamy texture and aromatic flavors make it a delightful indulgence for both fasting and non-fasting days. Enjoy this traditional Indian dessert with your loved ones and celebrate the joyous spirit of the Navratras!

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