Lauki Paneer Kofta Curry

No-Onion, No-Garlic Lauki-Paneer Kofta Curry

Sounds delecious?

Fasting days need food that feels like a wholesome meal. This No-Onion, No-Garlic Lauki Paneer Kofta Curry is exactly the same. The koftas are soft, the gravy is mild and creamy and It is a good pick for your Vrat ka khana (fasting food) not just in Navratri 2026 rather for every Navratri becuase it is that delicious that there is no second thought for giving up on this navratri feast which is quick to prepare. 

It is an easy navratri special recipe. You need only a selected few ingredients. Most of them are already in your kitchen.

Not much time taking

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Makes: 12 to 14 koftas
  • Serves: 4 people

Why it is a Good Choice for Protein Rich Navratri Food

Lauki is light on the stomach. Paneer gives protein. Together they keep you full for longer. The gravy uses dahi so there is no need for onion or garlic. That makes this a simple sattvik lauki paneer kofta recipe.

It also works as navratri fasting food on any of the nine days. If you are planning healthy navratri food for 9 days, this one adds a nice change to the usual aloo and kuttu dishes.

Ingredients for No-Onion No-Garlic Lauki Paneer Kofta Curry

For the koftas

  • 1 cup grated lauki
  • 1 cup grated Madhusudan Paneer
  • 3 tablespoons singhare ka atta
  • 1 green chilli, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon grated ginger
  • Sendha namak as per taste
  • Ghee for frying

For the gravy

  • 1 cup Madhusudan Dahi, whisked
  • 1 tablespoon Madhusudan Desi Ghee
  • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cashew paste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Sendha namak as per taste
  • Chopped coriander for garnish

Let’s start the cooking

1. Prepare the lauki

Grate the lauki. Squeeze out all the water with your hands. Dry lauki is the secret to firm koftas.

2. Make the kofta mix

Mix lauki, paneer, singhare ka atta, green chilli, ginger and sendha namak. Mix until it holds together. Make small balls.

3. Fry the koftas

Heat ghee in a pan. Fry the koftas on medium heat. Turn them often. Take them out when they are golden.

4. Start the gravy

Heat one tablespoon of ghee in another pan. Add cumin seeds. Let them crackle. Add ginger and cook for a minute.

5. Add the dahi

Lower the flame. Add whisked dahi slowly. Keep stirring. This stops it from splitting. Add cashew paste, black pepper and sendha namak.

6. Simmer

Add half a cup of water. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes on low heat. The gravy should look smooth.

7. Add the koftas

Place the koftas in the gravy just before serving. Garnish with coriander.

Tips to mind

  • Squeeze the lauki well. Extra water makes the koftas break.
  • Use fresh paneer. It binds better.
  • Do not add too much atta. It makes koftas hard.
  • Fry on medium heat. 
  • Keep the dahi at room temperature before cooking. It mixes more smoothly.
  • Add the koftas right before serving. They stay soft this way.

Serving Ideas for a Special Navratri Thali

Serve the curry while it is still hot. The koftas go soft if they sit for long. Kuttu ki puri is the best partner. Rajgira roti works well too. And so does a small plate of samak rice. Keep a bowl of cold dahi on the side. A little fruit chaat at the end feels nice after the spices. 

Put these together. You have a full meal for Navratri fast thali. 

FAQ’s

Can I make lauki kofta without onion garlic?

Yes. Ginger, green chilli and cumin give enough taste. This lauki kofta without onion garlic is mild and light.

Can I make lauki kofta in curd gravy?

Yes. A lauki kofta in curd gravy is soft and a little tangy. Add the dahi on low flame.

Can I make the koftas ahead of time?

Yes. Fry them in the afternoon and keep them covered. Add them to the gravy before dinner.

Is this a good Navratri dish for guests?

Yes. It looks rich and is easy to make. It suits any navratri dish's recipe list for a festive meal.