Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Bottle Gourd

   Peel the bottle gourd (lauki) thoroughly using a peeler.

2. 2.Deseed and Grate

   Cut the peeled bottle gourd, remove the seeds, and then grate it using a grater.

3. 3.Sauté in Ghee

   Heat a kadai (wok) and add 2 1/2 tablespoons of ghee. Once the ghee melts, add the grated bottle gourd to the kadai. Mix well and cook until all the water from the bottle gourd evaporates, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

4. 4.Add Milk and Cook

   Pour 1 glass of milk into the mixture and mix it thoroughly with the bottle gourd. Cover the kadai and cook on a low flame for 20 minutes, allowing the bottle gourd to soften and absorb the milk.

5. 5.Add Sugar and Cook Further

   After 20 minutes, remove the lid, give the mixture a good mix. Add 5 tablespoons of sugar and mix well until combined. Cover again and cook for another 5-10 minutes on low flame until the ghee starts to separate from the mixture.

6. 6.Incorporate Dry Fruits and Khoya

   Once the ghee separates, add the chopped dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios) and 20 grams of khoya to the mixture. Mix everything well and continue to stir and cook for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens and comes together.

7. 7.Add Flavor and Color

   Stir in 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder and a very small amount (1-2 drops) of green food color. Mix thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed and the mixture is well combined.

8. 8.Set the Barfi

   Transfer the prepared barfi mixture into a ghee-greased mould. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and press it down firmly to create a smooth, flat surface. Let it cool down to room temperature, then refrigerate for 1 hour to set.

9. 9.Serve Lauki Barfi

   After 1 hour of refrigeration, demould the set Lauki Barfi onto a plate. Cut it into desired cube shapes and serve. The Lauki Barfi is now ready to enjoy.