Indulge your taste buds with the rich and creamy flavors of Malai Kofta, a beloved Indian dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece! These delectable vegetarian dumplings, made from paneer and vegetables, are enveloped in a luscious tomato gravy that will leave you craving more. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience. Ready to elevate your cooking game and bring the vibrant tastes of India to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup paneer
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup green peas
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cream
- Spices to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the kofta mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of crumbled paneer, 1/2 cup of mashed potatoes, 1/4 cup of grated carrots, and 1/4 cup of green peas. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Add 1 teaspoon of garam masala and spices to taste into the mixture. You can add salt, black pepper, or chili powder according to your preference. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the spices.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup of bread crumbs to the mixture to help bind the ingredients together. The mixture should be firm enough to shape into balls. If it feels too wet, add more bread crumbs as needed.
- Once the mixture is well combined, take small portions and roll them into smooth balls (about the size of a golf ball). Set the kofta balls aside on a plate.
- Next, prepare the gravy. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the onion is cooked, add the 2 cups of tomato puree to the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add salt and any additional spices you prefer (such as cumin, coriander, or turmeric) to the tomato puree. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the gravy is simmering, heat oil in a separate pan for frying the kofta. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the kofta balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the kofta and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Once the tomato gravy is ready, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup of cream. Mix well until the gravy is creamy and smooth. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Gently add the fried kofta balls to the gravy, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to simmer in the gravy for about 5-7 minutes, so they absorb the flavors.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the kofta to soak in the gravy.
- Serve the Malai Kofta hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves, alongside naan, roti, or rice. Enjoy your delicious Indian vegetarian dumplings!
Tips
- Perfecting the Kofta: Ensure your kofta mixture is well combined but not overly wet. Adjust the amount of bread crumbs as needed to achieve a firm consistency that holds its shape when rolled.
- Frying Technique: Fry the kofta in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, which helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Flavorful Gravy: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar to the tomato puree while it simmers. This balances the acidity and enhances the overall taste.
- Creamy Finish: Stir the cream into the gravy on low heat to prevent it from curdling. This will keep your sauce smooth and luscious.
- Resting Time: Allow the kofta to sit in the gravy for a few minutes before serving. This soaking time helps the dumplings absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Malai Kofta with warm naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice to soak up every bit of that delicious gravy. Garnish with fresh coriander for a pop of color and freshness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
