To begin with the Lauki Bharta Recipe, first peel the lauki/bottle gourd and grate the bottle gourd. Keep this aside, as we proceed to make the masala for the bharta.

In a wok heat a tablespoon of oil, add jeera and let it crackle. Now add ginger garlic paste and let it brown.

Add chopped onions and saute' till they start turning brown later add tomato and cook till the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts separating.

To this mixture, add red chilly powder, salt and saute for a few seconds.

Add grated bottle gourd to this, give this a good mix. Cover the pan and allow the lauki to cook in low to medium heat. The lauki will give out its own liquid as it comes in contact with salt. If required, add just a little more water to cook the bottle gourd. 

Cook till the lauki is cooked and is well combined with the spices. At this stage, add garam masala powder, cook further till until combined and the lauki bharta consistency should remain thick. Chesck the salt and spices and adjust to suit your taste.

Once done, turn off the heat and stir in chopped coriander leave and sugar. Give it a mix and transfer the Lauki Bharta to a serving bowl.

Serve the Lauki Bharta along with Phulkas, Jeera Pulao & a Mint & Pomegranate Raita for a perfect weeknight dinner or even pack into the lunch box for work.