Malai Kofta is a royal dish that brings together soft, melt-in-your-mouth paneer and mawa dumplings served in a rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for festive occasions, this version of Malai Kofta combines the richness of mawa (khoya) with the softness of paneer, creating a dish that’s indulgent and absolutely delightful. Serve it with butter naan, jeera rice, or roti to experience pure culinary bliss.
Ingredients
For the Koftas:
- Paneer (Cottage Cheese): 200 g, grated
- Mawa (Khoya): 50 g, grated
- Boiled Potatoes: 1 medium, mashed
- Cornflour: 2 tbsp
- Cashews and Raisins: 2 tbsp, chopped (for stuffing)
- Salt: To taste
- Oil: For frying
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4–6 |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Koftas
- Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine grated paneer, mawa, mashed potatoes, and salt. Add cornflour and mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Stuff the Koftas: Take small portions of the dough, flatten them slightly, and add a pinch of chopped cashews and raisins in the center. Roll into smooth balls.
- Fry the Koftas: Heat oil in a pan and deep fry the koftas on medium heat until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
- Start the Base: Heat butter in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the Aromatics: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Then, add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
- Season the Gravy: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Cashew Paste & Cream: Stir in the cashew paste, followed by water, to achieve the desired gravy consistency. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Finish with Garam Masala: Add fresh cream and garam masala. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Gently place the fried koftas into the warm gravy just before serving.
- Garnish with a drizzle of cream and fresh coriander leaves.
Tips for Perfect Malai Kofta
- For Smooth Koftas: Make sure the paneer is fresh and the dough is smooth to avoid cracks during frying.
- Adjust the Consistency: For a thicker gravy, reduce the water slightly; for a thinner gravy, add milk instead of water.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the koftas and gravy separately and combine just before serving to maintain texture.
Health Benefits of Paneer and Mawa
While this dish is indulgent, paneer is packed with protein and calcium, making it a great addition to your diet. Mawa adds richness and energy, perfect for festive occasions. However, enjoy it in moderation as it is calorie-dense.
Conclusion
Malai Kofta with Paneer and Mawa is a dish that will leave your guests impressed and your family asking for seconds. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for celebrations or a weekend indulgence. Give this recipe a try, and let the creamy koftas melt in your mouth!
Let me know if you’d like any changes or additions to this post!
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