Lau Dalma, also known as Odia Lauki Dal, is a wholesome and flavorful traditional dish from Odisha. Made with lauki (bottle gourd), moong dal, mild spices, and a hint of sweetness, this recipe is both nutritious and easy to prepare. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, Lau Dalma is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup moong dal
- 1/2 cup potato cubes
- 1/2 cup lauki (bottle gourd) cubes
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2–3 dry red chilies
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Salt to taste
- Sugar to taste
- 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
- 1 tbsp grated coconut
- 1 tsp chopped coriander leaves
Method:
- Dry roast moong dal on low flame until golden brown.
- Wash the dal thoroughly and boil with turmeric and salt.
- Add potato and lauki cubes to the boiling dal and cook until soft.
- Heat ghee in a kadhai, add cumin seeds, dry red chilies, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
- Pour the cooked dal and vegetables into the kadhai, bring to a brief boil for a minute.
- Adjust salt and sugar according to taste.
- Garnish with roasted cumin powder, grated coconut, and chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.