Vegan Kofta Curry Recipe
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegan
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 5
Introduction
Vegan Kofta Curry is a delightful North Indian dish that brings together a rich blend of vegetables, tofu, and aromatic spices, crafted into delicious koftas (dumplings) served in a flavorful, creamy curry. This dish is a perfect dinner option for vegans and non-vegans alike, offering a rich and satisfying meal when paired with roti, naan, or steamed rice. It’s a hearty meal with a touch of comfort, making it a popular choice in many Indian households. Here’s how to make this delectable Vegan Kofta Curry at home!
Ingredients
For the Koftas:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Grated Carrot | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Zucchini | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Beetroot | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Bottle Gourd | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Cabbage | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Tofu | 1/4 cup |
| Ginger-Garlic Paste | 1 tsp |
| Green Chilies (crushed) | 2 |
| Multi-grain Flour or Gram Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Coriander Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Cumin Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Rice Flour | 2 tsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil (for frying) | As needed |
For the Gravy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chopped Onions | 2 |
| Tomatoes (boiled, peeled, and chopped) | 3 |
| Cashews (soaked in warm water for 30 minutes) | 7 |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 tsp |
| Red Chili Powder | 1 tsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1/2 tsp |
| Ginger-Garlic Paste | 1 tsp |
| Oil (for cooking) | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Coriander (for garnishing) | A few sprigs |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Koftas
-
Mix the Ingredients:
Start by preparing the kofta mixture. In a large bowl, combine all the grated vegetables (carrot, zucchini, beetroot, bottle gourd, cabbage) and grated tofu. Add ginger-garlic paste, crushed green chilies, multi-grain flour (or gram flour), coriander powder, cumin powder, rice flour, asafoetida (hing), amchur powder, and salt. Mix well until the mixture comes together. -
Shape the Koftas:
Once the mixture is well combined, take small portions and roll them into small balls (about the size of a lemon). Make sure the balls are smooth and evenly shaped. -
Fry the Koftas:
Heat oil in a frying pan or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the kofta balls into the oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crisp on all sides. This will take about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the koftas from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
(Alternatively, you can prepare the koftas in a paniyaram pan using a little oil if you prefer a healthier option.)
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
-
Make the Cashew Paste:
While the koftas are frying, prepare the gravy. In a blender, combine the boiled tomatoes, chopped onions, and soaked cashews. Blend them into a smooth paste. Set aside. -
Cook the Spices:
In a separate pan or kadai, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 10-15 seconds. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears. -
Add Onion-Tomato Paste:
Add the onion-tomato-cashew paste to the pan. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the oil begins to separate from the gravy. -
Season the Gravy:
Once the base is cooked, add garam masala, red chili powder, and salt to taste. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes. -
Add Water and Simmer:
Add water to the gravy to reach your desired consistency (usually about 1 cup of water). Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add sugar and let the gravy cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the gravy to thicken. -
Finish the Gravy:
Once the gravy is thick and flavorful, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
-
Combine Koftas with Gravy:
Gently add the prepared koftas to the simmering gravy. Be careful not to break the koftas. Stir lightly to coat them in the gravy. Let the koftas soak in the gravy for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the curry. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Kofta Curry
- For crispy koftas: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the koftas. If the oil is too cold, the koftas may absorb excess oil and become soggy.
- To enhance the flavor: You can also add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to the gravy for a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- Customizing the gravy: Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding more or less water based on your preference. If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Conclusion
This Vegan Kofta Curry is a hearty, flavorful dish that is packed with nutrition and is perfect for a wholesome dinner. Whether you are following a vegan diet or simply looking for a delicious vegetarian meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of fresh vegetables, tofu, and spices, all wrapped in a creamy, aromatic curry, makes this dish a satisfying and healthy option for any meal. Enjoy it with roti or rice, and relish the delicious flavors of this traditional North Indian delight!
