Lauki, also known as bottle gourd or calabash, is a light green, elongated vegetable with smooth, tender skin and a mild, subtly sweet flavor. It is widely used in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Mediterranean cuisines due to its versatility and nutritional benefits. The flesh of lauki is soft and watery, making it ideal for absorbing the flavors of spices and other ingredients during cooking.
 
Lauki is commonly used in curries, soups, stews, and sabzis (vegetable dishes). It can also be used to make beverages like lauki juice, which is known for its health benefits. The vegetable is low in calories, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for digestion and overall health.