Paneer Malai Kofta is a classic North Indian comfort food that combines crispy paneer dumplings (koftas) with a rich, creamy, and luxurious gravy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this dish brings gourmet Indian flavors to your dinner table.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 175
• Fat: 13g
• Sodium: 305mg
• Carbohydrates: 7.5g
• Protein: 6.5g
• Fiber: 2.5g
• Sugar: 6.5g

Ingredients

For Kofta Balls:

• 250g cottage cheese (paneer)
• 3 medium-sized boiled potatoes
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 3-4 cloves of garlic crushed
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour or corn flour
• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder

For Gravy:

• 2 large onions (pureed)
• 3-4 cloves of garlic crushed
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup cashew paste
• 1/2 cup cream (optional)
• Spices: garam masala (store bought is fine), turmeric, red chili powder, and salt

Alternatives:

• You can bake or air-fry the koftas for a healthier option.
• Skip the cream in the gravy if desired.

Instructions

1. Prepare Kofta Balls:
   • Grate paneer, boiled potatoes, garlic and ginger in a mixing bowl.
   • Add chopped fresh coriander and spices (kasuri methi, red chili powder, salt, coriander powder, cumin powder).
   • Shape into small balls and deep-fry until golden brown.
2. Make Gravy:
   • Heat oil in a pan.
   • Add onion paste, ginger and garlic and sauté until golden. Add some oil if it gets dry.
   • Add tomato puree, cashew paste, and spices.
   • Cook until the oil separates.
   • Add water to achieve the desired consistency.
   • Optionally, add cream for richness.
3. Combine Koftas and Gravy:
   • Gently place the fried koftas into the gravy.
   • Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Let the gravy soak into the koftas.

Pro tip: This gravy can be applied to meatballs as well.

Conclusion

Paneer Malai Kofta is a labor of love, but the melt-in-your-mouth koftas and the creamy curry are well worth the effort. Serve it with butter naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice for a memorable meal.