Dudhi, also called bottle gourd or lauki, is a light-weight inexperienced, elongated squash generally utilized in Indian delicacies. It has a gentle, barely candy taste and excessive water content material, making it good for dishes like curries, sambar, and savory pancakes like Dudhi Dhirde. Dudhi is flexible and can be utilized in each savory and candy recipes—it is even cooked down with sugar and cardamom to make a dessert known as Dudhi Halwa. It’s a staple in lots of Indian households for its mild taste and flexibility throughout recipes.
Often known as Dudhi Pudla or Lauki Chilla, this beloved Maharashtrian dish has been a staple in my grandma’s kitchen for years. Made with freshly grated dudhi, semolina, heat spices, and crunchy roasted peanuts, it turns humble components into one thing actually particular.
The batter is poured onto a sizzling pan, making a pancake that’s each tender and crisp, with the gentle dudhi letting the spices and Shengadanyacha Koot (roasted peanut powder) shine. Serve it sizzling with spiced yogurt chutney—it’s so satisfying as breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

For followers of Indian pancakes, Dudhi Dhirde is only one of many! Just like Dudhi Dhirde, you would possibly take pleasure in Masoor Chilla, Moong Chilla, and Besan Chilla—savory pancakes made with crimson lentils, mung dal, or chickpea flour. Every provides a novel tackle the traditional chilla, bringing selection and an thrilling vary of flavors to your desk!