How To Make Authentic Punjabi Lauki Chana Dal Curry For A Nutritious Family Meal

Simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying, Punjabi Lauki Chana Dal Curry is one of those dishes that perfectly captures the heart of traditional North Indian home cooking. Combining the mild sweetness of bottle gourd (lauki) with the earthy richness of Bengal gram lentils (chana dal), this curry is not only nutritious but also immensely comforting. According to culinary experts, it’s a staple in many Punjabi households because it’s light on the stomach yet packed with protein, fibre, and flavour. Served with roti, steamed rice, or even jeera rice, it makes for a nourishing meal that’s both easy to digest and fulfilling.

A Perfect Blend of Taste and Nutrition

Lauki, also known as bottle gourd or doodhi, is a summer vegetable celebrated for its cooling properties. It’s high in water content and low in calories, making it ideal for those seeking a healthy and balanced diet. When paired with protein-rich chana dal, it transforms into a dish that’s not only satisfying but also energising. Nutritionists note that this combination helps maintain digestive health, supports muscle function, and provides sustained energy throughout the day.

What sets the Punjabi version apart is the clever use of spices — not overwhelming, but balanced to bring out the best of both main ingredients. A hint of cumin, ginger, garlic, and garam masala gives it warmth and depth, turning a simple curry into a soulful comfort food.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

To make an authentic Punjabi Lauki Chana Dal Curry, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are readily available in most Indian kitchens.

• 1 cup chana dal (Bengal gram)

2 cups lauki (bottle gourd), peeled and diced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 tomato, finely chopped

1 tsp cumin seeds

1–2 green chillies, slit

1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

½ tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp coriander powder

½ tsp red chilli powder

½ tsp garam masala

Salt to taste

2 tbsp ghee or oil

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

According to home chefs, the secret lies in soaking the chana dal for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This not only softens the lentils but also ensures even cooking and a creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Method to Make Punjabi Lauki Chana Dal Curry

1. Preparing the Dal

Rinse and soak the chana dal in water for 30–45 minutes. Drain it before cooking. In a pressure cooker, heat ghee or oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then add ginger-garlic paste and green chillies, followed by tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil separates from the masala.

2. Adding Spices and Lauki

Next, add turmeric, coriander, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix well, then add the diced lauki and soaked chana dal. Stir to coat the vegetables and dal in the aromatic spice mixture. Add 2½ to 3 cups of water, depending on how thick you want the curry.

3. Pressure Cooking

Close the lid and pressure cook for 3–4 whistles on medium heat. Allow the pressure to release naturally. When you open the cooker, the dal should be tender but not mushy, and the lauki soft yet intact.

4. Finishing Touches

Sprinkle garam masala and stir gently. If you prefer a slightly richer taste, you can add a spoonful of ghee at this stage. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.

How to Serve It Right

Punjabi Lauki Chana Dal Curry pairs beautifully with plain roti, paratha, or steamed basmati rice. It can also be served with jeera rice for a more flavourful experience. Many families also enjoy it with a side of yoghurt or papad to add texture and freshness to the meal.

Why You Should Add It to Your Weekly Menu

This curry isn’t just comforting — it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. It offers a perfect balance of protein, fibre, and essential vitamins, supporting overall well-being. Lauki helps regulate hydration and digestion, while chana dal promotes satiety and heart health. According to nutrition experts, regularly including such balanced dishes in your diet can improve metabolism and energy levels.

The recipe’s simplicity makes it a perfect choice for weekday dinners or weekend comfort meals. It’s light yet satisfying, wholesome yet full of flavour — exactly what a balanced Indian diet stands for.

In every Punjabi household, the humble Lauki Chana Dal Curry represents more than just food — it’s comfort, warmth, and nourishment served in a bowl. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned food lover, this dish promises simplicity and satisfaction in every bite. So the next time you’re looking for a healthy, home-style curry that’s hearty and delicious, give this traditional recipe a try — your taste buds and body will thank you.