Malai Kofta Recipes

Malai Kofta is a popular North Indian dish consisting of deep-fried paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and potato dumplings served in a creamy and rich tomato-based gravy. Here is the recipe:

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ready Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the Koftas:

• 200 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), grated or crumbled
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 2 tablespoons corn flour or all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• 1 tablespoon cashew paste (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, corn flour or all-purpose flour, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth dough-like mixture.
2. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape them into round or oval koftas (dumplings).
3. Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat. Deep fry the koftas in batches until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the oil and drain on a kitchen paper towel to remove excess oil. Set aside.
4. In a separate pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
5. Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
6. Add ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
7. Add the tomato puree or finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the mixture thickens.
8. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to the pan. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes to roast the spices.
9. Add fresh cream and cashew paste (if using) to the pan. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.
10. Gently place the fried koftas into the gravy and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the koftas to absorb the flavors.
11. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves.
12. Serve the Malai Kofta hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Enjoy the creamy and flavorful Malai Kofta, a delicious vegetarian dish that is sure to impress your taste buds!