Bottle gourd is packed with nutrients like fiber, manganese, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin C. It’s low in saturated fat and calories and contains a high amount of water, making it perfect for cooling the body during hot summers. Due to these health benefits, bottle gourd is often called a superfood.

Many people consume bottle gourd as juice or cooked vegetable, but children especially tend to dislike it in these forms. If that’s the case, you can try these tasty and healthy recipes that make eating gourd enjoyable for all ages.

Bottle Gourd Raita

In summer, raitas like boondi and cucumber are popular to keep the body hydrated. You can add bottle gourd raita to your meals for a refreshing twist. To make it, steam the gourd and then grate it. Mix the grated gourd into curd along with roasted cumin powder and salt. Don’t throw away the water released while grating—it adds extra flavor and nutrition when mixed into the curd.

Bottle Gourd Chutney

Chutneys always enhance the flavor of meals. Alongside mint and coriander, try making a unique bottle gourd chutney. Chop the gourd and cook it in a pressure cooker with salt, turmeric, and enough water for one whistle on low flame. Once cooled, drain the water and mash the gourd thoroughly.

Grind some garlic and heat oil in a pan. Add crushed garlic and fry till golden. Then add red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Stir well and add the mashed gourd. Cook until the water evaporates, then turn off the heat. Your tasty bottle gourd chutney is ready to serve.

Bottle Gourd Dhokla

For something different, try making bottle gourd dhokla. Wash and grate the gourd. Mix it with semolina (sooji) and gram flour (besan). Prepare a batter by adding finely chopped onion, ginger, red chili powder, salt, chili flakes, turmeric powder, chaat masala, and curd. If the batter feels too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water.

Add chopped coriander and a little oil. Meanwhile, heat water in a steamer. Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt to the batter and mix gently. Pour the batter into a greased steaming dish and steam on low flame for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick, then let it cool before serving.