malai kofta

Malai kofta is a popular North Indian dish that consists of deep-fried dumplings made from a mixture of mashed potatoes, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and various spices. These dumplings are typically stuffed with a filling of nuts and raisins to add a rich and sweet flavor. After frying, they are served in a creamy tomato-based gravy known as “malai” (which means cream in Hindi), hence the name “malai kofta.”

The gravy for malai kofta is made by blending together tomatoes, cream, various spices, and sometimes cashew nuts to create a rich and flavorful sauce. It’s a vegetarian dish that’s known for its indulgent, creamy texture and a balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Malai kofta is often served with naan, roti (Indian flatbread), or rice, making it a delicious and popular choice in Indian cuisine. It’s a favorite among many for its decadent taste and is commonly prepared for special occasions and celebrations.

The Anatomy of Malai Kofta

The dish “Malai Kofta” can be broken down into its various components:

1. Kofta: The kofta is the main element of the dish. It consists of deep-fried dumplings made from a mixture of ingredients, which typically include mashed potatoes, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and a blend of spices. These dumplings are usually stuffed with a mixture of finely chopped nuts (like cashews or almonds) and raisins. The kofta dumplings are fried until they become golden brown and crispy on the outside.
2. Gravy (Malai): The gravy, often referred to as “malai,” is a creamy and rich tomato-based sauce that surrounds the kofta dumplings. It’s prepared by cooking tomatoes with various spices, cream (hence the name “malai,” which means cream), and sometimes cashew nuts. The result is a luscious, smooth, and mildly sweet sauce that complements the savory kofta.
3. Spices: Various spices and herbs are used to flavor both the kofta mixture and the gravy. Common spices include cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. These spices contribute to the complex and aromatic flavor profile of the dish.
4. Nuts and Raisins: Chopped nuts, such as cashews or almonds, and raisins are typically used as a stuffing for the kofta dumplings. These ingredients add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness to the dish, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
5. Accompaniments: Malai kofta is often served with Indian bread like naan or roti, as well as with steamed rice. These accompaniments help soak up the flavorful gravy and provide a complete and satisfying meal.
6. Garnishes: The dish is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves (cilantro) or cream to enhance its appearance and taste.

Overall, the anatomy of malai kofta consists of these key elements: the kofta dumplings, the creamy tomato-based gravy, a blend of spices, nuts, raisins, and accompaniments, all of which come together to create a delectable and indulgent Indian vegetarian dish.

Cooking Malai Kofta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we’ve explored the essence of Malai Kofta, let’s dive into the kitchen and learn how to prepare this sumptuous dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you embark on your Malai Kofta journey, gather the following ingredients:

For the Kofta:

• 2 cups boiled and mashed potatoes
• 1 cup grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
• 2-3 tablespoons cornstarch or all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Chopped nuts (cashews or almonds) and raisins for stuffing
• Oil for deep frying

For the Gravy (Malai):

• 2 cups chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1/4 cup cashew nuts (soaked in warm water for 15 minutes)
• 1-inch piece of ginger
• 3-4 cloves of garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Cooking Instructions :

Prepare the Kofta :

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and grated paneer.
2. Add cornstarch or all-purpose flour, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to the potato-paneer mixture. Mix everything well to form a smooth dough.
3. Take a small portion of the dough in your hand, flatten it, and place some chopped nuts and raisins in the center. Shape it into a ball, ensuring the stuffing is enclosed. Repeat this process for all kofta balls.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the kofta balls and fry them until they turn golden brown and crisp. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil by placing them on a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Malai Gravy:

• In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, soaked cashew nuts, ginger, and garlic. Blend until you get a smooth puree.
• Heat oil or ghee in a separate pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.
• Pour in the tomato-cashew puree and cook it on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the oil begins to separate from the mixture. This may take around 10-15 minutes.
• Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes until the spices are well incorporated.
• Reduce the heat to low and add the cream to the gravy. Mix it in and simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combining Koftas and Gravy:

1. Place the fried kofta dumplings in a serving dish or on a platter.
2. Carefully pour the hot malai (gravy) over the kofta. Ensure that the koftas are evenly coated with the creamy tomato-based gravy.
3. You can gently move the kofta dumplings around in the gravy to make sure they soak up the delicious sauce.
4. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and added flavor.
5. Malai Kofta is now ready to be served.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Once the koftas and gravy are combined in your serving dish, it’s time to garnish the dish for both visual appeal and added flavor.
2. Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves (also known as cilantro) evenly over the top of the Malai Kofta. The vibrant green color of the coriander adds a fresh contrast to the creamy gravy.
3. Optionally, you can drizzle a bit of cream over the dish for an extra touch of richness and elegance.
4. Your Malai Kofta is now beautifully garnished and ready to be served.
5. Serve the Malai Kofta hot, along with naan, roti, or rice, as per your preference. It makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s sure to be enjoyed by all!

FAQs

Is Malai Kofta a Spicy Dish?

Malai Kofta is known for its creamy and mildly spiced gravy, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer milder flavors. However, the level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste.

Can I Make Malai Kofta Without Paneer?

Paneer is a key ingredient in traditional Malai Kofta, but you can experiment with alternatives like tofu for a vegan version or mashed vegetables for a different texture.

What Are Some Variations ?

Malai Kofta has various regional variations in India. Some versions use nuts like almonds and cashews for a richer taste, while others incorporate a spinach-based gravy for a unique twist.

Can I Freeze Malai Kofta?

Yes, you can freeze the koftas before frying and the gravy separately. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw, fry the koftas, and prepare the gravy.

Is Malai Kofta a Healthy Dish?

While Malai Kofta is undeniably delicious, it’s not the healthiest option due to its creamy and fried elements. However, you can make a lighter version by using less cream and shallow-frying the koftas.

Can I Make Malai Kofta in Advance for Parties?

Absolutely! Malai Kofta is an excellent dish for parties as you can prepare it in advance and reheat before serving. The flavors often meld together, making it even more delicious.

Conclusion

Malai Kofta is a culinary gem that brings together the richness of cream and the robust flavors of Indian spices. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this dish is worth trying. Impress your loved ones with the decadent taste of homemade Malai Kofta, and let it transport you to the heart of Indian cuisine.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather the ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and embark on a flavorful journey that will leave you craving for more of this beloved Indian dish.

malai kofta

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 30 min Cooking Time: 40 min 40 min

Nutrition facts: 540 calories 40g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

For the Koftas:

• 2 cups of grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
• 1/2 cup of boiled and mashed potatoes
• 2 tablespoons of cornflour
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala
• Oil for deep frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup of cashew nuts, soaked in warm water and ground into a paste
• 1/2 cup of fresh cream (malai)
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup of water
• Chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Start by making the koftas:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, cornflour, salt, red chili powder, and garam masala.
   • Mix everything well to form a smooth dough.
   • Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into round or oval koftas.
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the koftas and fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them and drain excess oil on paper towels. Set aside.
2. Now, let's prepare the creamy gravy:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
   • Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
   • Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
   • Stir in tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
   • Add cashew paste and cook for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens and the oil separates again.
   • Reduce the heat to low and add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the spice mixture for a couple of minutes.
3. Pour in fresh cream and water, and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Simmer the gravy for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop flavors.
4. Now, gently place the fried koftas into the gravy and let them simmer for another 5 minutes. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as the koftas are delicate.
5. Once the koftas have absorbed some of the creamy gravy and are heated through, remove from heat.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.