Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry

5 from 35 votes

Bottle gourd leaves stir fry is a wholesome and easy-to-make dish that showcases the tender stalks and leaves of the calabash plant. This traditional Bengali recipe brings together the vibrant hues and aromatic spices of the region, offering a delicious addition to your meal. Also called lau pata chorchori, this stir fry is ready in less than 20 minutes and can be enjoyed alongside steamed rice.

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Indian

Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free, Hindu, Low Calorie, Low Fat, Low Salt, Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings:

Calories: 87kcal

Author: Shilpa Kerur

Ingredients

1 big bunch bottle gourd leaves and tender stalk (see notes)
2 tablespoon poppy seeds
½ teaspoon mustard seeds
1-2 green chili or as per taste
1 teaspoon oil
1 teaspoon black caraway seeds
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prep:

Soak poppy seeds and black mustard seeds in some water for 5-10 minutes.
Wash and clean the bottle gourd leaves and stalk thoroughly.
Separate the stalk from the leaves. Cut the stalk into 2-inch pieces and roughly chop the leaves.
Combine the soaked poppy and mustard seeds with green chilies and grind them into a smooth paste.

Make the stir fry:

Heat oil in a kadhai or frying pan and add caraway seeds.
Once it splutters, add the bottle gourd stalk and mix well.
Cover and let it cook for 3-4 minutes.
Add the leaves and mix well.
Add the ground paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
Cover and let it simmer until the leaves and stalk are completely cooked.
Increase the heat and let excess moisture dry.
Serve hot with steamed rice.

Notes

Select fresh, tender bottle gourd leaves for the stir fry. Ensure that the leaves are vibrant in color, free from wilting or yellowing, and without any signs of damage. Older stalks and leaves are fibrous and inedible.

Thoroughly wash the calabash leaves to remove any dirt or impurities. You can immerse them in water and gently swirl them around to loosen any debris. Rinse them well and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

The spice levels in this stir fry can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili peppers or omit it altogether.

Nutrition