Lauki Kheer Recipe: Sweet offerings are made to Lord Vishnu. The Devuthani Ekadashi festival is approaching, and auspicious activities begin from this day.
Lauki kheer (bottle gourd pudding) has been a traditional offering since ancient times. Bottle gourd is considered sattvic (pure) and cooling for the body. This kheer is made with bottle gourd and dry fruits, and it is not only delicious but also beneficial for health. Let’s now learn how to prepare traditional lauki kheer for Devuthani Ekadashi:
What ingredients are needed to make Lauki Kheer?
Bottle gourd – 1 1/2 cups (grated)
Sugar – 1/2 cup, or to taste
Milk – 3 cups full cream
Raisins – 2 tablespoons
Saffron – 1 pinch
Cashews – 2 tablespoons, chopped
Cardamom powder – 1/2 teaspoon
Ghee – 1 tablespoon
How to make Lauki Kheer at home?
1- First, wash and peel the bottle gourd, then cut it into large pieces and remove the seeded part. Then grate the outer part, and after that, squeeze out the excess water from the grated bottle gourd.
2- Next, place a heavy-bottomed pan on the stove and let it dry completely.
3- Then add 1 tablespoon of ghee to the pan and let it melt. Once the ghee is hot, add 2 tablespoons of cashews and 2 tablespoons of raisins. Then roast them over medium heat until lightly golden brown and transfer them to a plate.
4- Now add the grated bottle gourd to the pan and stir it over medium heat for 5-6 minutes. Once the bottle gourd softens slightly, add 3 cups of milk and mix well.
5- Now, reduce the heat to medium and let the milk come to a boil. Then, cook it over low heat. Add a pinch of saffron and cook, stirring continuously, for 25-30 minutes until the mixture thickens.
6- Add 1/2 cup of sugar to it and cook on low heat for 4-5 minutes. Finally, add 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder, raisins, and roasted cashews and mix well. Now turn off the heat and enjoy your delicious bottle gourd kheer.