Lemony Bottlegourd Soup (Lemony Lauki Soup)

          Bottle Gourd or Lauki has a lot of health benefits. But it is detested and not liked by many. But it can be dished out in a delicious way and in any form. So why not a soup? So, here is my version of a curried and Lemony Bottle gourd soup which is just awesome. 

          I added some kaffir lime leaves to give a refreshing flavour. Serve this soup along with some croutons or bread sticks for a satisfying, filling and a healthy meal. Pressure cook it to save time and voila!! you have a one-pot light meal right in front of you. 

• 1/2 of a small bottle gourd, roughly chopped
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tsp. ginger garlic paste
• 2 tbsp. oil
• 2 bay leaves
• salt to taste
• 1/2 tsp. pepper powder or to taste
• 1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp. red chili powder
• 1 tsp. roasted coriander-cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp. garam masala powder
• 8-10 kaffir lime leaves
• coriander leaves & chili flakes to garnish (opt)

          Heat oil in a pan and sauté the bay leaves for a few seconds. Add the onions and fry till light brown. 

          Add the ginger-garlic paste and all the dry spices mixed with 1/4 cup water. Sauté till oil separates.

          Add the bottle gourd and the kaffir lime leaves. Combine well and pressure cook in 2 1/2 cups water for 3-4 whistles. 

          When cool, discard the bay leaves and lime leaves. Preserve few bottle gourd pieces to garnish. 

          Puree the same and heat through. Serve, garnished with the bottle gourd chunks, coriander leaves and chili flakes.