Lauki Thepla (Spiced Indian Flat-bread)

Gujarati recipes are always liked by my folks at home. This time around I tried the Lauki theplas.

These theplas are not just tasty but also works very well to fill in your tummy. 

During my school days I have always gorged on the tiffin boxes my Gujarati friends would get & finish it off much before the snack breaks. I classify this as a perfect snack! Works fine for breakfast as well.

I dedicate this post to all my Gujju friends! :)

This is a HIT if you travel long distance by train as this spiced Indian flat-bread remains perfect for long hours. It does not require refrigeration however, if you want to store them at home you are free to refrigerate & re-heat as & when required.

You will need:

• Lauki (Bottle Gourd) - 1 cup grated
• Wheat flour - 3 cups
• Green chillies - 3 finely shredded
• Ajwain (Carom seeds) - 1/2 tsp
• Turmeric powder - about a pinch for coloring
• Oil - 1.5 tbsp (for kneading)
• Salt - as per taste
• Water- as required (for kneading)
• Oil/Butter/Ghee - for cooking

Method:

Put all the ingredients into a mixing bowl & knead them together for about 7 minutes. This will be a hard dough. Should not be very soft. When done, cover with a wet cloth for about 20 mts & then roll out the dough log long & divide into equal portions. 

Now, take a portion & place it on the board & use the rolling pin to roll it round just like any other flat bread. while rolling you may want to sprinkle some flour if it sticks to the board.

Heat a heavy skillet or a tava & place the thepla on this. Cook on medium flame or low flame when required as the lauki needs to be cooked well. Use grease on both sides while cooking & press this thepla so it cooks well. When brown spots appear turn & cook the other side.

Theplas are ready!

Note:

• You may substitute lauki (bottle gourd) with mooli (radish) or methi (fenugreek leaves)
• I grated the bottle gourd & sprinled salt over it so it releases all the water content. I drained the water before mixing into the flour. Many people do not drain the water off but it might get very sticky so I avoid doing this
• You may skip greasing the theplas if you want oil free ones
• Pickles & green chutney are the perfect accompaniment