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Kem Chho, Mitron! Let’s Make Dudhi Nu Shaak, Ek Dum Tasty!

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Chef Curry Do’pyaza

Kem Chho, Mitron! Let’s Make Dudhi Nu Shaak, Ek Dum Tasty!

Namaste and Kem Chho, my dear food-loving friends! Chef Curry Do’pyaza here, back with another delightful recipe straight from my kitchen to yours. Today, we are diving into the world of Gujarati cuisine with a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish: Dudhi Nu Shaak.

For my Gujarati brothers and sisters, this dish needs no introduction. It’s a staple in many homes, a comforting reminder of family gatherings and delicious home-cooked meals.

A Dish for Every Occasion

Dudhi Nu Shaak is more than just a daily vegetable dish; it’s often made during auspicious occasions. You’ll find it gracing the tables during festivals like Navratri, Diwali, and even simple family pujas. It’s a light and easily digestible dish, making it perfect for fasting days or when you simply want a healthy and satisfying meal. Many Gujarati families make this during the monsoon season as Dudhi is easily available.

A Humble History

Dudhi, also known as bottle gourd, has been cultivated in India for centuries. This humble vegetable has been a part of our culinary heritage for generations. Dudhi Nu Shaak, in its various forms, has been passed down through families, each adding their own unique touch to the recipe. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Indian home cooks.

Ready to Cook?

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 500 grams Dudhi (Bottle Gourd), peeled and diced into small cubes
  • 2 tablespoons Tel (Cooking Oil) – I prefer groundnut oil for its nutty flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Rai (Mustard Seeds)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Jeeru (Cumin Seeds)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Hing (Asafoetida)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Haldi (Turmeric Powder)
  • 1 teaspoon Lal Mirch Powder (Red Chili Powder) – adjust to your spice preference
  • 1 teaspoon Dhaniya Jeeru Powder (Coriander-Cumin Powder)
  • 1-2 Green Chilies, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 inch piece of Adrak (Ginger), grated
  • 1 tablespoon Besan (Gram Flour)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Dhaniya (Cilantro), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Nimbu Ras (Lemon Juice)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup water

Let’s Get Cooking!

  1. Heat the Oil: In a kadhai or deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them splutter, which means they are ready to release their aroma.
  2. Add Aromatics: Now, add the cumin seeds and asafoetida. Let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add the grated ginger and green chilies (if using) and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  3. Sauté the Dudhi: Add the diced dudhi to the pan and stir well to coat it with the oil and spices.
  4. Add Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander-cumin powder, and salt. Mix everything well, ensuring the dudhi is evenly coated.
  5. Cook it Down: Add 1/4 cup of water, cover the pan, and let the dudhi cook on low to medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it becomes soft and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Besan Magic: Mix the gram flour with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry. This will help thicken the shaak and add a nutty flavor. Add this to the pan and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Garnish and Finish: Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped cilantro.

Chef Curry’s Tips for the Best Dudhi Nu Shaak:

  • Choose Young Dudhi: Select a young and tender bottle gourd for the best flavor and texture. It should be firm and smooth.
  • Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the dudhi, as it can become mushy.
  • Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of red chili powder to suit your spice preference.
  • Add a Touch of Sweetness: Some people like to add a pinch of sugar or jaggery to balance the flavors. You can try it and see if you like it.

Different Ways to Cook Dudhi Nu Shaak:

  • Pressure Cooker: For a quicker version, you can pressure cook the dudhi with the spices for 2-3 whistles. Be careful not to overcook it.
  • Microwave: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine all the ingredients and microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Slow Cooker/Crockpot: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
  • Induction Stove: Follow the same steps as the gas stove method, adjusting the heat levels accordingly.

Nutritional Goodness:

Dudhi is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet. It aids in digestion, helps in weight management, and keeps you hydrated.

Serving Suggestions:

Dudhi Nu Shaak is best served hot with roti, paratha, or rice. It also pairs well with dal and a side of yogurt. You can also enjoy it as a light and healthy lunch or dinner.

Now It’s Your Turn!

So, there you have it – my simple and delicious recipe for Dudhi Nu Shaak. I encourage you to try this recipe at home and share the joy of cooking with your friends and family. It’s a dish that’s sure to bring a smile to their faces and warmth to their hearts.

Happy cooking, my friends! Until next time, keep exploring the wonderful world of Indian cuisine.