- Heat mustard oil for frying in a pan. Once the oil is hot, fry the bottle gourd until golden brown from all the sides. Drain on a plate lined with kitchen tissue. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in another pan. Once the oil is hot, add cloves, black cardamom and cinnamon stick and let them crackle for a few seconds. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds. Add curd along with a cup of water and bring it to a boil. Add fennel powder, ginger powder, crushed shahi zeera and salt to taste. Bring the curry to a boil. Add the fried bottle gourd. Cover the pan and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Add more water if required. Serve hot with steamed rice.