Malai Kofta Curry Recipe – Creamy and Healthy Paneer Aloo Kofta Curry
Indulge in the delightful flavors of North India with this creamy and healthy Malai Kofta Curry, where soft, delectable koftas made of paneer and potatoes are enveloped in a rich, aromatic gravy that’s perfect for any meal. This dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious option for vegetarian diets, offering a comforting balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Malai Kofta Curry is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 3 – boiled |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1½ cups – crumbled |
| Garam Masala Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 2 tablespoons |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | ¼ cup – finely chopped |
| Raisins | ½ cup – a handful |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sunflower Oil | for cooking |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger | 1 inch – finely chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves – finely chopped |
| Onion | 1 – finely chopped |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 2 cups |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh Cream | ¼ cup |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 tablespoon – for garnishing |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 320 |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fats | 15 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture
Begin by preparing the kofta mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled and mashed potatoes with crumbled paneer, garam masala powder, red chilli powder, gram flour (besan), finely chopped coriander leaves, raisins, and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly until you have a uniform dough. Once combined, divide the mixture into lemon-sized balls.
Step 2: Form and Cook the Koftas
Flatten each ball gently in the palm of your hand, place a couple of raisins in the center, and carefully seal the dough back into a ball shape, ensuring the raisins are enclosed within. If you prefer a healthier version, you can cook the koftas in a Kuzhi Paniyaram pan. Drizzle a little sunflower oil into the cavities of the pan, place the kofta balls inside, and cook until golden brown on all sides, flipping them gently to achieve an even color.
Step 3: Prepare the Curry
To create the rich curry, heat sunflower oil and ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped ginger, garlic, and onion, sautéing for a few minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Then stir in the homemade tomato puree, honey, turmeric powder, cardamom powder, garam masala powder, coriander powder, salt, and red chilli powder to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to cook through.
Step 4: Final Touches
After the curry has simmered, reduce the heat and stir in the fresh cream and kasuri methi, mixing thoroughly to incorporate these ingredients into the gravy. If the curry is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little water as needed. Remember to taste and adjust the salt and spices to suit your preference.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the kofta curry is ready, carefully place the warm kofta balls into the serving bowl filled with the rich gravy. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a vibrant finish. This creamy and flavorful Malai Kofta Curry is best served hot, accompanied by Tawa parathas, Mixed Vegetable Pulao, or Mooli Raita for a well-rounded Indian meal.
This recipe not only provides a fulfilling main course but also promises to be a hit at any dinner party, showcasing the vibrant and diverse flavors of North Indian cuisine. Enjoy the creamy indulgence of Malai Kofta and savor each delightful bite!
This Malai Kofta Curry recipe seamlessly marries taste with nutrition, embodying the essence of love and warmth found in home-cooked meals. Perfect for a family gathering or as a centerpiece at an Indian dinner party, it is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
