Make Malai Kofta Recipe Easy Restaurant Style

Fragrant, rich, and a veritable feast of flavors that Malai Kofta has in store for you. This popular Indian dish, with its tender koftas drenched in a creamy tomato sauce, is a testament to the culinary prowess of Indian cuisine. The recipe is very simple, if you are new or trying to make it for the first time then don’t worry, because we will try our best to make Malai Kofta recipe for you in very simple words.

One particular thing that I have mentioned in many posts is that if you read any post with the desire to learn, try to read it several times. So that you remember well, and don’t need to look at the post again and again while making the recipes.

What is Malai Kofta?

Malai Kofta is a traditional Indian dish cherished across the subcontinent and beyond. “Malai” means cream and “Kofta” refers to the deep-fried balls made of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), potatoes, and spices. These koftas are then doused in a luxuriously rich tomato based gravy infused with an array of spices.

Originating from the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire, this dish is a beloved staple in Indian celebrations and feasts.

Recipe Instructions

Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making Malai Kofta at home.

Ingredients

For the Kofta:

• 1 cup grated Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese)
• 1 cup boiled and mashed Potatoes
• 2 tablespoons Cornflour
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying

For the Gravy:

• 1 cup chopped Tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped Onions
• 1 teaspoon Ginger-Garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons Cashew paste
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Red Chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup Fresh Cream
• 2 tablespoons Oil or Ghee (clarified butter)

Preparing the Kofta Mixture

1. In a bowl, mix the grated paneer, boiled potatoes, cornflour, and salt until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into equal parts and shape each part into a ball or oval. Set aside.

Shaping and Frying the Koftas

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, gently place a few koftas in it. Do not overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry until the koftas turn golden brown. Remove and set on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Making the Creamy Tomato Gravy

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden.
2. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
4. Blend the mixture into a smooth paste. Return it to the pan, add the cashew paste, and cook for a few minutes.
5. Stir in the fresh cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Combining the Koftas and Gravy

1. Just before serving, place the koftas in a serving dish and pour the gravy over them.
2. Garnish with fresh cream and chopped coriander leaves. Your delicious Malai Kofta is ready to be served!

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

For a vegan version of Malai Kofta, substitute paneer with firm tofu and use a dairy-free cream in the gravy. You can also use gluten-free flour instead of cornflour for the koftas.

Tips for the Perfect Malai Kofta

1. Ensure that the paneer and potatoes are well drained. Excess moisture can cause the koftas to break while frying.
2. Fry the koftas on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and don’t turn dark too quickly.
3. Add the koftas to the gravy just before serving to keep them crisp.

Conclusion about Malai Kofta Recipe

Malai Kofta is an exquisite dish that beautifully showcases the depth and versatility of Indian cuisine. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to savor restaurant style Malai Kofta in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a home cook experimenting with new cuisines or a food blogger seeking inspiration, this recipe is sure to delight you.

Remember, like any culinary journey, making Malai Kofta is not just about the destination (or the delicious meal), but also about the joy and learning in the process.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the koftas and gravy in advance?

Yes, you can prepare both the koftas and gravy in advance. Just store them separately and combine them just before serving.

2. Can I bake the koftas instead of frying them?

Yes, for a healthier version, you can bake the koftas at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until golden.

3. What can I serve with Malai Kofta?

Malai Kofta pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or any type of rice. A side of cucumber raita (yogurt-based dish) can also complement the rich flavors beautifully. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try and enjoy the delectable flavors of Malai Kofta!