Malai Kofta: A Creamy, Vegetarian Delight

 Malai Kofta: A Creamy, Vegetarian Delight

Malai Kofta, a popular Indian dish, is a symphony of flavors and textures. Soft, melt-in-your-mouth koftas (dumplings) made from paneer (Indian cheese) and potatoes are nestled in a rich, creamy, mildly sweet gravy. This dish is a vegetarian delight, perfect for special occasions or a weekend indulgence.

The Making of Malai Kofta

The dish is a two-part process: preparing the koftas and making the gravy.

For the Koftas:

1. Grate paneer and boil potatoes until soft.
2. Mix the grated paneer, mashed potatoes, cornflour, chopped nuts, raisins, ginger, and green chilies.
3. Season with salt and garam masala.
4. Shape the mixture into small, cylindrical dumplings.
5. Deep fry the koftas until golden brown.

For the Gravy:

1. Sauté onions, ginger, garlic, and green chilies in butter until golden brown.
2. Add tomato purée, cashew paste, and spices (turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala).
3. Cook until the oil starts to separate.
4. Stir in fresh cream and simmer for a few minutes.
5. Add the fried koftas and simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Preparation Time: 45 minutes Serves: 4-6 people

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 15-18 grams
• Fat: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

Tips and Variations:

• For a richer gravy, use full-fat cream and add a dollop of butter before serving.
• For a healthier version, bake or air-fry the koftas instead of deep frying.
• Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or cauliflower to the gravy for a more wholesome dish.
• Adjust the spices to your preference.
• Garnish with chopped nuts or a swirl of cream for an extra touch of elegance.

Malai Kofta is a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. It's rich, creamy, and flavorful, a true celebration of Indian cuisine.

About the Recipe:

This recipe is inspired by traditional Indian methods, with a few modern twists. It's easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. The use of Amul Paneer ensures the koftas are soft and creamy, while the fresh cream in the gravy adds richness and depth.

Remember, cooking is an art, so feel free to experiment and adjust the recipe to your liking. Happy cooking!