Recipe for Malai Kofta: A Creamy Delight

Malai Kofta is a popular Indian dish loved for its rich, creamy gravy and delectable kofta (fried dumplings). This dish, often reserved for special occasions, is a perfect blend of spices and textures. Whether served with naan, roti, or rice, Malai Kofta is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe to recreate the magic in your kitchen.

Ingredients
For the Koftas:
●    Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 200 g, grated
●    Boiled potatoes – 2 medium, mashed
●    Cornflour – 2 tbsp
●    Green chili – 1, finely chopped
●    Raisins – 8–10
●    Cashews – 8–10, chopped
●    Salt – as per taste
●    Oil – for frying

For the Gravy:
●    Onion – 2 medium, finely chopped
●    Tomatoes – 3 medium, pureed
●    Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tbsp
●    Cashews – 10–12, soaked and ground into a paste
●    Fresh cream – 3 tbsp
●    Milk – 1/2 cup
●    Butter – 2 tbsp
●    Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
●    Turmeric powder – 1/2 tsp
●    Red chili powder – 1 tsp
●    Coriander powder – 1 tsp
●    Garam masala – 1/2 tsp
●    Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – 1 tsp, crushed
●    Salt – as per taste

Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Koftas
1.    Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, chopped green chili, and salt. Add cornflour to bind the mixture.
2.    Shape the Koftas: Take a small portion of the mixture, flatten it, and stuff it with a few raisins and chopped cashews. Roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat for the rest of the mixture.
3.    Fry the Koftas: Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the koftas on medium heat until golden brown. Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

2. Prepare the Gravy
1.    Sauté the Onions: Heat butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
2.    Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
3.    Cook the Tomato Puree: Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
4.    Add the Spices: Mix in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for a minute.
5.    Blend the Gravy: Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend it into a smooth paste using a blender. Return it to the pan.
6.    Incorporate Cashew Paste: Add the cashew paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.
7.    Add Milk and Cream: Stir in the milk and cream to achieve a creamy consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding water if needed.
8.    Finish with Kasuri Methi and Garam Masala: Add garam masala and crushed kasuri methi for an aromatic touch. Simmer the gravy for a few minutes.

3. Assemble the Malai Kofta
1.    Add Koftas to the Gravy: Gently place the fried koftas into the gravy just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
2.    Garnish: Drizzle fresh cream on top for a luxurious finish and garnish with coriander leaves.

Tips for Perfect Malai Kofta
1.    For Softer Koftas: Ensure the paneer and potatoes are fresh and mashed well to avoid lumps.
2.    Avoid Breaking Koftas: Fry on medium heat and make sure the mixture is bound well with cornflour.
3.    Smooth Gravy: Always blend the gravy ingredients for a restaurant-style creamy texture.
4.    Serving Tip: Serve immediately after adding koftas to the gravy to maintain their crispness.

Serving Suggestions
Malai Kofta pairs wonderfully with:
●    Breads: Butter naan, garlic naan, or tandoori roti.
●    Rice Dishes: Steamed basmati rice or jeera rice.
●    Side Dishes: A fresh green salad or raita to balance the richness.

Conclusion
Malai Kofta is a rich and indulgent dish that brings together the goodness of paneer and the flavors of a creamy, spiced gravy. Whether for a festive meal or a dinner party, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and earn you compliments. Prepare it with love, and enjoy this classic Indian delicacy!