Hi-Protein Paneer Lauki Soup | Healthy Dudhi Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• High in protein from paneer
• Light, gut-friendly, and easy to digest
• Perfect for weight loss or clean eating
• Quick and easy one-pot recipe
• Gluten-free and low-carb

For the soup:

• 2 cups lauki bottle gourd/dudhi, peeled & chopped
• ½ cup paneer cubed
• 1 small onion chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ghee or oil
• 2 cups vegetable stock or water
• 2 tablespoon fresh coriander stems (optional)
• 1 dried bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice, to taste

For paneer croutons:

• ½ cup paneer cut into small cubes
• 2 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
• 2 teaspoon ghee or oil
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon mixed herbs or oregano
• salt to taste

For Soup:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, garlic, ginger, and onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
2. Add chopped lauki and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add vegetable stock, coriander stems, cover, and cook until lauki is soft (about 7-8 minutes).
4. Add paneer cubes to the cooked lauki mixture.
5. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
6. Cool slightly, then blend into a smooth soup.
7. Return to the pan and adjust consistency with water if needed.
8. Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
9. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.

For Paneer Croutons:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan.
2. (Optional) Lightly coat the paneer cubes with cornstarch. Note: This helps create a crisp, crouton-like texture.
3. Add paneer cubes and roast on medium heat until golden and crisp.
4. Sprinkle salt, chili flakes, and herbs. Toss well.

Serving:

1. Pour hot soup into bowls.
2. Top with crispy paneer croutons.
3. Garnish with coriander leaves and a dash of black pepper.

Variations & Tips

• Add soaked moong dal for extra protein
• Swap paneer with tofu for a vegan version
• Add a splash of milk for creaminess
• Spice it up with green chili or black pepper