Easy and Delicious Malai Kofta Recipe: Creamy Indian Dumplings in Tomato Gravy | Delicious Savory Secrets

Welcome to the delightful world of cooking! Today, I'll be sharing with you a mouthwatering recipe for Malai Kofta. Malai Kofta is a popular Indian dish that consists of creamy and succulent cottage cheese and potato dumplings served in a rich and aromatic tomato-based gravy. It's a dish that never fails to impress, with its heavenly combination of flavors and textures. So let's get started.

Malai Kofta Recipe:

Ingredients for the Koftas:

• 200 grams paneer (cottage cheese), grated
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying

Ingredients for the Gravy:

• 3 large tomatoes, blanched and pureed
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons cashew nuts, soaked in water
• 2 tablespoons fresh cream
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

For the Koftas

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated paneer, mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, garam masala, and salt. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small, round balls to form the koftas. Set them aside.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the koftas and fry them until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the oil and place them on a kitchen towel to absorb any excess oil.

For the Gravy:

1. In a blender, add the soaked cashew nuts along with a little water and blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
2. Heat a little oil in a separate pan and add the chopped onions. Sauté them until they turn golden brown.
3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Now, add the tomato puree and cook for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from the sides.
5. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for another couple of minutes.
6. Pour in the cashew nut paste and stir until the gravy thickens slightly.
7. Reduce the heat and add the fresh cream, stirring gently to combine.
8. Finally, carefully place the fried koftas into the gravy, ensuring they are coated evenly. Allow them to simmer in the gravy for 3-4 minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Enjoy the creamy and delectable Malai Kofta.

Now, let's talk about the benefits of eating Malai Kofta.

♦ While Malai Kofta is undoubtedly a rich and indulgent dish, it does have its advantages. The main ingredient, paneer (cottage cheese), is a great source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, making it beneficial for bone health and muscle development. The dish also incorporates a range of aromatic spices, such as ginger, garlic, turmeric, and coriander, which offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Additionally, the creamy gravy contains cashew nuts, which provide healthy fats and essential minerals.

♦ However, it's important to consume Malai Kofta in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content. Pair it with a balanced diet and exercise routine to enjoy this delicious dish as part of a healthy lifestyle.

So go ahead, savor the flavors, and relish the goodness of Malai Kofta. 

Stay tuned for more scrumptious recipes and culinary wonders here at "Delicious Savory Secrets." Happy cooking and happy eating.