Vegan Recipes

Lauki Chana Dal Curry Recipe

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🥒 Lauki Chana Dal Curry Recipe (Bottle Gourd with Split Bengal Gram)

📝 Introduction

Lauki Chana Dal Curry is a comforting, protein-rich Indian dish made with tender bottle gourd (lauki) and nutritious chana dal (split Bengal gram). This wholesome curry is a staple in many Indian households, especially in North and Central India, where it’s loved for its light texture, mild spices, and high nutritional value.

Perfect for lunch or dinner, this curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, roti, or chapati, making it an excellent choice for everyday meals, weight-conscious diets, and diabetic-friendly food plans.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Lauki Chana Dal Recipe

  • 🥗 Healthy & Low-Calorie
  • 💪 High in Plant Protein & Fiber
  • 🌱 Vegan & Gluten-Free
  • ⏱️ Easy One-Pot Recipe
  • 🍛 Perfect for Meal Prep

🛒 Ingredients for Lauki Chana Dal Curry

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup lauki (bottle gourd) – peeled & cubed
  • ½ cup chana dal – soaked for 30 minutes
  • 1 medium onion – finely chopped
  • 1 medium tomato – finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies – slit
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee

Spices

  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds
  • Salt to taste

For Garnish

  • Fresh coriander leaves
  • Lemon juice (optional)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Lauki Chana Dal Curry (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Chana Dal

Pressure cook soaked chana dal with turmeric and salt for 3–4 whistles until soft but not mushy. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook until soft and oil separates.

Step 4: Add Lauki & Spices

Add lauki cubes, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Dal & Simmer

Add cooked chana dal and water as needed. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until lauki is tender.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Finish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with steamed basmati rice
  • Pair with phulka, chapati, or jowar roti
  • Add a side of curd or salad for a balanced meal

🥗 Nutritional Benefits of Lauki Chana Dal

  • Lauki: High water content, aids digestion, supports weight loss
  • Chana Dal: Rich in protein, iron, and fiber
  • Low Glycemic Index: Suitable for diabetics
  • Heart-Friendly & Gut-Healthy

🔄 Variations You Can Try

  • 🌶️ Spicy Version: Add garam masala or black pepper
  • 🍲 South Indian Style: Add curry leaves & mustard seeds
  • 🧄 No Onion-Garlic: Ideal for vrat or sattvic meals

❓ FAQs – Lauki Chana Dal Curry

What is Lauki Chana Dal made of?

It’s made with bottle gourd, chana dal, mild spices, onion, and tomato, cooked into a comforting curry.

Is Lauki Chana Dal healthy?

Yes! It’s low-calorie, high-protein, fiber-rich, and great for digestion and weight loss.

Can I make Lauki Chana Dal without a pressure cooker?

Yes. Cook chana dal in a pot; it may take 35–40 minutes until soft.

How long does Lauki Chana Dal last?

It stays fresh for 2 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this curry?

Yes, but it’s best consumed fresh as lauki may release water after freezing.

📌 Pro Cooking Tips

  • Always soak chana dal for quicker cooking
  • Do not overcook lauki—it should stay slightly firm
  • Add lemon juice at the end to retain nutrients

❤️ Final Thoughts

This Lauki Chana Dal Curry Recipe is proof that healthy food can be delicious, simple, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or creating content for your food blog, this recipe checks all the boxes for taste, nutrition, and SEO performance.

👉 Try it today and share your experience in the comments!

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