This Low-Oil Lauki Kofta Curry offers the comfort of a classic Indian dish without deep-frying. Air-fried koftas made with bottle gourd and gram flour stay crisp outside and soft inside. The tomato-based curry brings warmth, aroma, and spice; best for guilt-free weekday meals or festive spreads.
Grate the bottle gourd and let it rest for 10 minutes. Squeeze out the excess water using a clean cloth. Combine it in a bowl with green chilli, ginger, ajwain, spices, besan, rice flour, and cilantro. Mix until it forms a soft dough that holds shape when pressed.
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Step 2: Shape and Air Fry Koftas
Preheat your air fryer to 190°C. Shape small balls from the mixture and place them in the greased basket. Lightly spray oil over the tops. Air fry for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway until golden brown. Remove and let them rest — they’ll firm up slightly as they cool.
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Step 3: Sauté Aromatics for Gravy
Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add bay leaf and cumin seeds, letting them sizzle. Stir in onions and cook until golden. Add minced ginger, garlic, and green chilli, cooking until the raw aroma disappears. This forms the flavourful base of the curry.
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Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the pureed tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture. Add turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt. Keep stirring on medium flame — this slow cooking gives the curry its rich colour and depth.
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Step 5: Simmer the Gravy
Add a cup of water, stir, and let the curry simmer gently. Mix in kasuri methi and garam masala. Allow the gravy to thicken slightly while flavours blend beautifully. Adjust seasoning or consistency as desired.
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Step 6: Combine and Serve
Gently place the air-fried koftas in the gravy just before serving to keep them crisp on the outside and tender inside. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lemon juice if desired.