Malai Kofta
Malai kofta is a popular North Indian dish consisting of soft, paneer-based dumplings in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. The dumplings are made from a mixture of paneer, potato, and chickpea flour, and they are shallow-fried until golden brown. The sauce is made from a base of onions, tomatoes, and cream, and it is seasoned with a blend of spices such as garam masala and turmeric. Malai kofta is typically served with rice or roti.
Malai kofta is believed to have originated in the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. The dish was originally called "kofta-e-qalmi," which means "pen-shaped dumplings." It is said that the dumplings were shaped like pens because they were often used to write poetry on the plates of guests. Over time, the dish evolved into its modern form, and it is now a popular dish throughout India and Pakistan.
Malai Kofta Malai Kofta Malai Kofta Malai Kofta
Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 45 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
  • 1/4 cup besan (chickpea flour)
  • 1/4 cup potato, boiled and mashed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
  1. In a bowl, combine the paneer, besan, potato, ginger-garlic paste, green chili, lemon juice, garam masala, and salt.
  2. Mix well and form into small balls.
  3. Heat the oil in a frying pan and shallow fry the koftas until golden brown on all sides.
  4. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  5. To make the sauce, heat the oil in a saucepan and add the onions.
  6. Cook until translucent, then add the tomatoes.
  7. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
  8. Add the cream and bring to a boil.
Why It Works
  • The combination of paneer, potato, and chickpea flour in the dumplings creates a soft and flavorful texture.
  • Shallow-frying the dumplings gives them a golden brown crust that is both crispy and flavorful.
  • The creamy tomato sauce is rich and flavorful, and it complements the dumplings perfectly.
  • The addition of garam masala and turmeric to the sauce gives it a warm and aromatic flavor.