Malai Kofta: A Regal Indian Vegetarian Delight

When it comes to Indian cuisine, few dishes evoke as much admiration and nostalgia as Malai Kofta. These soft, creamy dumplings made from paneer and potatoes are gently simmered in a luxurious tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices and cream. The result? A velvety, melt-in-your-mouth curry that feels nothing short of royal.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving comfort food, Malai Kofta never fails to satisfy the soul and elevate the dining table.

What Is Malai Kofta?

The word "Malai" means cream, and "Kofta" refers to fried balls made from a mixture of mashed ingredients, often bound together with flour or breadcrumbs. In Malai Kofta, the dumplings are crafted using a mix of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), boiled potatoes, a hint of cashew or raisin filling, and delicate spices. These golden balls are then served in a creamy, mildly spiced tomato-based gravy, often enriched with cream, butter, and ground cashews.

A Brief History of Malai Kofta

Malai Kofta traces its origins to Mughlai cuisine, which emphasized richness, decadence, and culinary finesse. It was designed to cater to royal palates, combining dairy-based richness with subtle yet complex flavors. Today, this dish is a mainstay in North Indian restaurants around the world, especially loved by vegetarians for its indulgent taste and festive presentation.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Malai Kofta

You don’t need to be a professional chef to prepare this elegant dish at home. Here’s a simplified, restaurant-style recipe that serves 4.

Ingredients

For the Koftas:

  • 1 cup grated paneer
  • 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 2 tablespoons cornflour or all-purpose flour
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp chopped cashews and raisins (for stuffing)
  • Oil for deep frying

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp oil or butter
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1½ cups tomato puree
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • ¼ cup cashew paste (soaked and ground)
  • ¼ cup fresh cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Koftas

  1. In a bowl, combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, salt, garam masala, and cornflour.
  2. Divide the mixture into small portions. Flatten each and fill with a little cashew-raisin mixture.
  3. Roll into smooth balls and deep fry until golden brown. Set aside on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

  1. Heat oil or butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in ginger-garlic paste.
  3. Add tomato puree, turmeric, coriander powder, chili powder, and salt.
  4. Cook the masala until oil starts to separate.
  5. Mix in cashew paste and simmer for 5–6 minutes.
  6. Add cream and adjust consistency with water. Simmer on low heat.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Place the fried koftas gently into the gravy right before serving. Garnish with cream swirls and chopped coriander. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

Why Malai Kofta Is Loved Around the World

  • Rich and comforting: The use of paneer and cream makes it ideal for cold nights or festive meals.
  • Vegetarian but indulgent: It offers a gourmet experience without any meat.
  • Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike for its mild, flavorful profile.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with butter naan or garlic naan for a complete North Indian experience.
  • Serve it alongside jeera rice or pulao to balance the richness.
  • A cooling cucumber raita or simple salad adds a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Store the gravy and koftas separately in the fridge to prevent them from getting soggy.
  • Reheat the gravy, then gently add the koftas right before serving.
  • Stays good for up to 2–3 days refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

Malai Kofta isn’t just a dish—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. Whether served at a wedding, festival, or weekend dinner, it brings joy to any table. Its richness doesn’t lie just in the cream and spices but in the heritage it carries and the comfort it offers.

Looking to enjoy Malai Kofta in Seattle, WA? Visit Jewel of India, where traditional recipes meet modern hospitality. Located at 4735 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105, we serve authentic North Indian dishes that satisfy every craving. Call us at 206-523-5275 or email jewelofindia101@gmail.com to make a reservation or inquire about catering.