Malai Kofta Recipe
Malai kofta is a rich and creamy North Indian dish made with soft paneer and potato dumplings (koftas) served in a smooth, mildly spiced tomato-cashew gravy. It is a popular restaurant-style recipe often served with naan, roti, or rice.
If you want to make delicious malai kofta at home, follow this easy step-by-step recipe.
Ingredients
For Kofta
- 2 boiled potatoes
- 1 cup grated paneer
- 2 tablespoons cornflour or breadcrumbs
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
For Gravy
- 2 onions (chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 10–12 cashews (soaked)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2–3 tablespoons cream
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
Method
1. Prepare Kofta Mixture
Mix boiled potatoes, paneer, salt, pepper, and cornflour. Make smooth dough and form small balls.
2. Fry Koftas
Deep fry or shallow fry koftas until golden brown. Keep aside.
3. Prepare Gravy Base
Heat oil, add cumin seeds, onions, and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and tomato puree.
4. Add Cashew Paste
Blend soaked cashews with water and add to the gravy for creaminess.
5. Cook Gravy
Add spices and cook until oil separates. Add cream and mix well.
6. Combine
Just before serving, add koftas into the hot gravy.
Tips for Perfect Malai Kofta
- Add koftas to gravy just before serving to keep them soft
- Do not over-fry koftas
- Cashew paste gives rich texture
- Adjust cream for desired richness