Lauki, which is frequently overlooked, takes centre stage as a hydrating vegetable in this Navratri recipe. Healthy, satisfying, and bursting with mild Indian flavours, Lauki pancakes are the perfect solution for your fasting needs during Navratri. Vrat flours such as singhara, kuttu, or samak provide a naturally gluten-free base that is both airy and delicious, while bottle gourd (lauki) adds moisture and tenderness. Cumin, coriander, and green chillies provide a burst of freshness to the pancakes, while a little yoghurt adds tang and helps bind them together.
Enjoy these golden lauki pancakes for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner while fasting; they’re a savoury alternative to typical sweets and fried snacks. For a festive touch, garnish with pomegranate, coconut, or vrat-friendly chutney.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
1 mediumLauki (bottle gourd), peeled
½ cupSinghara (water chestnut) flour or kuttu (buckwheat) flour
Begin by peeling and grating the lauki. Gently squeeze out any excess water, but keep the liquid in a bowl in case you need it to mix into the batter.
Description - Step 2
Make the Batter
Add the grated lauki, singhara or kuttu flour, samak flour (if using), yoghurt, green chilli, coriander, cumin seeds, rock salt, and black pepper to a bowl. Combine the ingredients until a thick batter forms. If needed, add the reserved lauki water to achieve the desired consistency.
Description - Step 3
Cook the Pancakes
Bring a tawa or nonstick pan to medium heat and lightly coat it with oil or ghee. Make small pancakes by dropping spoonfuls of batter and spreading them out. Cook for two to three minutes on each side until golden brown and soft. Continue with the rest of the batter.
Description - Step 4
Serve & Garnish
Arrange a delightful stack of pancakes on a plate and sprinkle with fresh coriander, a handful of pomegranate arils and grated coconut. Enjoy them piping hot alongside refreshing mint chutney or plain yoghurt.