1. Calabash Curry: A spicy curry made with a base of tomato, onion and ginger-garlic paste, and seasoned with cumin, coriander powder, turmeric and other spices. The main ingredient is thick chunks of calabash that are first deep fried in oil until golden before adding them to the gravy.
2. Bottle Gourd Dal: A simple and nutritious dal, made with split pigeon peas cooked in a creamy tomato-onion-cumin gravy, and the main ingredient of the dish is diced calabash. It can be served with rice or roti for a healthy meal.
3. Calabash Kebabs: A delicious snack made with grated calabash, spices and herbs. The kebabs are shallow fried in oil until golden brown and crisp on the outside.
4. Calabash Fritters: Thin slices of bottle gourd dipped in a flavorful batter of gram flour and spices, then deep fried to perfection. These fritters make a great snack or appetizer.
5. Calabash Halwa: A delicious sweet made with grated calabash, ghee and sugar, flavored with cardamom powder and garnished with nuts. It is best enjoyed warm as an after-dinner dessert.