Malai Kofta Recipe – Rich, Creamy & Delicious Indian Restaurant-Style Curry

Malai Kofta Recipe – Rich, Creamy & Delicious Indian Restaurant-Style Curry

Learn how to make soft and creamy Malai Kofta at home with this easy step-by-step recipe. Perfect for parties, festivals, or dinner with naan or rice.

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Malai Kofta Recipe – Rich, Creamy & Delicious Indian Restaurant-Style Curry

Malai Kofta is a luxurious North Indian curry made with soft paneer-potato dumplings (koftas) soaked in a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced gravy. “Malai” means cream and “Kofta” refers to fried balls—together they create a dish that is both indulgent and full of flavor.

This recipe is ideal for special occasions, family dinners, or when you want to impress your guests with a classic restaurant-style meal. Serve Malai Kofta with naan, butter roti, or jeera rice for the ultimate experience.

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🧾 Ingredients

For the Kofta:

• 1 cup grated paneer
• 2 medium boiled potatoes (mashed)
• 2 tablespoons cornflour or maida
• 2 tablespoons chopped cashews and raisins (for stuffing)
• Salt to taste
• A pinch of garam masala
• Oil for frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons oil or butter
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 large onions (chopped)
• 2 large tomatoes (pureed)
• 10-12 cashew nuts (soaked in hot water for 15 mins)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

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🧑‍🍳 How to Make Malai Kofta – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make the Koftas

1. Mix grated paneer, mashed potatoes, salt, garam masala, and cornflour in a bowl.
2. Divide the mixture into small balls.
3. Flatten each ball, place a few chopped cashews and raisins inside, and seal to form round koftas.
4. Deep-fry or shallow-fry the koftas on medium heat until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Gravy

1. In a pan, heat oil or butter and add cumin seeds.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
4. Blend soaked cashews into a smooth paste and add to the pan.
5. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
6. Mix in turmeric, red chili, coriander powder, and salt.
7. Cook the masala for 5–7 minutes on low heat.
8. Add water to adjust the consistency, then stir in cream and garam masala.
9. Simmer the gravy for 4–5 minutes until creamy and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble

• Just before serving, place the koftas in a serving bowl and pour the hot gravy on top.
• Garnish with cream and fresh coriander leaves.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Malai Kofta is best enjoyed with:

• Butter naan or garlic naan
• Jeera rice or plain basmati rice
• Tandoori roti or laccha paratha

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💡 Tips for Perfect Malai Kofta

• Don’t add too much moisture to the kofta mixture; it may break while frying.
• You can bake or air-fry the koftas for a healthier version.
• Always add koftas to the gravy just before serving to keep them soft and intact.
• Cashew paste and cream add richness—don’t skip for authentic taste.
• You can use store-bought paneer or make fresh paneer at home for better texture.

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🥣 Nutritional Note

While Malai Kofta is a rich and festive dish, it provides:

• Protein from paneer
• Energy from cream and cashews
• Vitamins and fiber from tomatoes and onions
  It’s perfect for indulgent meals and special occasions when eaten in moderation.

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✅ Conclusion

Malai Kofta is a creamy, indulgent, and festive dish that brings a taste of restaurant-style luxury to your home kitchen. With its crispy paneer-potato dumplings and rich tomato-cashew gravy, it’s sure to be the highlight of your meal. Whether it’s a celebration or a special weekend dinner, this Malai Kofta recipe will never disappoint.

Try this easy step-by-step recipe today and enjoy the royal flavors of North Indian cuisine at home!

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