Bottle gourd, also known as ghiya kaddu in India, is a popular vegetable used for various culinary purposes. It is one of the few vegetables that have multiple benefits, including improving digestion, maintaining blood pressure, and aiding weight loss.
There are several varieties of bottle gourd available in the market, each with unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific culinary purposes. Here are some of the popular varieties of bottle gourd that you should consider:
1. Pusa Naveen: This is one of the most popular varieties of bottle gourd and is widely grown in India. The fruit of Pusa Naveen is slender and cylindrical and has a smooth light-green skin that turns yellowish-brown as it ripens. Pusa Naveen is known for its tender flesh and is best suited for making curries and soups.
2. Pusa Summer Prolific: As the name suggests, Pusa Summer Prolific is a high-yielding variety that is suitable for cultivation during the summer season. The fruit of this variety is fat, cylindrical, and has a dark green skin. Pusa Summer Prolific is best suited for making stuffed vegetable dishes and can also be used to make halwa and kheer.
3. Pusa Punjab Green: This variety is popular for its smooth and glossy skin that is deep green in color. The fruit of Pusa Punjab Green is long and cylindrical and has a slightly curved neck. The flesh of this variety is firm, and it is best suited for making pickles and chutneys.
4. Dudhi/Lauki: This is the most common variety of bottle gourd found in India and is available throughout the year. The fruit of Dudhi/Lauki is oval or round and has a light green skin. The flesh of this variety is slightly bitter and is best suited for making soups, curries, and vegetable stir-fries.
Overall, the choice of bottle gourd variety depends on your culinary requirements and preferences. It is important to select a variety that is fresh, firm, and has a smooth skin, as these are signs of good quality. Whether you are making a curry, soup, or stir-fry, bottle gourd is a versatile vegetable that can add a healthy and flavorful touch to your favorite dishes.