📸 Image coming soon for Bottle Gourd Paratha
Bottle Gourd Paratha
Breakfast • India
How to Make Bottle Gourd Paratha (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Bottle Gourd Paratha, known locally as Lauki Paratha or Doodhi Paratha, is a nutritious and wholesome flatbread from North India. This breakfast staple beautifully blends grated bottle gourd (lauki) with whole wheat flour (atta), spices, and herbs to create soft, flavorful parathas that are a delight on any Indian dining table. Traditionally enjoyed in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, lauki paratha is often served with curd (dahi), homemade pickles, or a dollop of white butter. The mild, slightly sweet taste of bottle gourd pairs perfectly with desi masalas, making this dish a favorite among both adults and children. It is especially popular during the summer months when lauki is abundant in Indian markets. These parathas are filling, easy to digest, and provide sustained energy throughout the morning. Whether relished during daily breakfast, packed in tiffin boxes, or served as a light meal during festivals like Navratri (when made without onion and garlic), Bottle Gourd Paratha stands as a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Northern India. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, this paratha is a perfect way to incorporate more vegetables and fiber into your diet.
Ingredients(for 2 medium parathas per person)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1 cup Bottle gourd (lauki/doodhi, peeled and grated)
- 1-2 Green chilies (finely chopped, hari mirch) - optional
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (dhaniya, finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/4 tsp Red chili powder (lal mirch) - optional
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/4 tsp Carom seeds (ajwain) - optional
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 1-2 tsp per paratha Ghee or oil (for roasting, use oil for vegan)
Instructions
- 1
Peel and grate the bottle gourd (lauki). Squeeze out excess water gently and keep the water aside for kneading the dough.
4 minutes
Use the lauki water for extra nutrition and flavor in the dough.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine atta, grated lauki, green chilies, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric, carom seeds, and salt.
3 minutes
Mix with hands to help distribute moisture evenly.
- 3
Gradually add the reserved lauki water and knead into a soft, pliable dough. Add more water as needed.
5 minutes
Dough should be soft but not sticky for easy rolling.
- 4
Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each into a ball.
2 minutes
Grease your palms to prevent sticking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it incorporates a generous portion of vegetables into the base itself, boosting vitamin, mineral, and fiber intake. The use of whole wheat flour ensures slow-release energy and keeps you fuller for longer, aiding in weight management. By roasting on a tawa with little oil or ghee, you reduce excess fat while retaining authentic flavor. Bottle gourd is known for its cooling properties, making this paratha especially beneficial during hot Indian summers.
Bottle Gourd Paratha is high in dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and satiety. Lauki is low in calories and rich in vitamins C and B, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Whole wheat flour (atta) provides complex carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and essential minerals such as manganese and zinc. The use of minimal oil/ghee and the inclusion of fresh herbs and spices offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Each paratha delivers a balanced mix of macros and micronutrients ideal for an energizing start to your day.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Squeeze lauki gently, but don't discard all the water—use it for kneading for added nutrition.
- 💡Tip 2: If the dough becomes too sticky, add a little more atta while kneading.
- 💡Tip 3: Always cook on medium flame to ensure parathas are evenly cooked and remain soft.
Storage & Serving
Parathas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 8 hours or refrigerated for 1-2 days. Reheat on a tawa or microwave before serving. For longer storage, freeze with parchment between each paratha and reheat directly from frozen.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |
