- **Water** – as needed (to adjust gravy consistency)
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### **Optional Garnish for Malai Kofta:**
- **Fresh Cream** – 1-2 tbsp (drizzle on top)
- **Coriander Leaves** – finely chopped
- **Saffron Strands** – soaked in warm milk (for a rich flavor and aroma)
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This ingredient list is designed to help you create a rich, creamy, and flavorful **Malai Kofta** dish, perfect for special occasions or indulgent meals.
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Steps
# How to Make Malai Kofta: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Creamy Indian Delight
Malai Kofta is a rich and creamy North Indian dish that combines soft, melt-in-your-mouth koftas (vegetable or paneer dumplings) with a luscious, spiced tomato-based gravy. This vegetarian delicacy is perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in a luxurious meal. Follow this detailed guide to make restaurant-style Malai Kofta at home.
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## **Ingredients for Malai Kofta**
### **For the Koftas:**
- 1 cup grated paneer (cottage cheese)
- 2 medium boiled and mashed potatoes
- 2 tbsp cornflour or all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, or pistachios)
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
### **For the Gravy:**
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cashew paste (soak cashews in warm water and blend)
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 tbsp butter or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Koftas**
1. In a mixing bowl, combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, cornflour, ginger-garlic paste, chopped nuts, garam masala, and salt.
2. Mix well to form a smooth dough-like mixture.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into round or oval koftas.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the koftas on medium heat until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel and set aside.
### **Step 2: Make the Gravy**
1. Heat butter or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
3. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates. Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cashew paste and mix well. Cook for another 5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
5. Pour in fresh cream and garam masala. Stir gently and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
### **Step 3: Assemble the Malai Kofta**
1. Gently place the fried koftas into the prepared gravy.
2. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the koftas absorb the flavors of the gravy.
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a drizzle of cream.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Serve Malai Kofta hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. Pair it with a side of raita or salad for a complete meal.
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## **Tips for Perfect Malai Kofta**
- Use fresh paneer for soft and creamy koftas.
- Avoid overcooking the koftas to prevent them from becoming hard.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
- For a healthier version, you can bake the koftas instead of frying them.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
Malai Kofta is a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of paneer and cream with the warmth of Indian spices. It’s a perfect dish for dinner parties, festivals, or cozy family meals. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the magic of restaurant-style Malai Kofta in your own kitchen.
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By following these steps, you’ll master the art of making Malai Kofta and impress your loved ones with this indulgent dish. Enjoy!