Indian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its balance of spices and rich flavors, and a few dishes embody it better than malai kofta. Soft, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is the epitome of North Indian luxury. At Saagar Phuket, our chefs bring the true essence of India to Thailand, preparing malai kofta with precision, passion, and authenticity.
A Glimpse into the History of Malai Kofta
The story of malai kofta begins in the royal kitchens of Mughal India, where rich, creamy gravies were created to please kings and nobles. The word “malai” means cream, and “kofta” refers to small balls made from vegetables, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or meat. When combined, they create one of India’s most beloved vegetarian dishes — malai kofta curry.
We honor this royal tradition by preparing paneer malai kofta that’s as smooth as silk, simmered in a velvety cashew-tomato gravy that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients for the Perfect Malai Kofta
Making the perfect malai kofta recipe at home starts with using fresh ingredients and balancing flavors carefully. Here’s what you need:
For the Koftas:
- 1 cup grated paneer
- 1 large boiled potato, mashed
- 2 tablespoons cornflour
- 2 tablespoons fresh cream or malai
- 1 tablespoon chopped cashews and raisins
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Gravy:
- 2 medium onions (chopped)
- 2 large tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 10–12 cashew nuts (soaked)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons cream
- Salt to taste
At Saagar Phuket, we source the freshest ingredients and authentic Indian spices to ensure that every malai kofta captures the real taste of home.
Step-by-Step Malai Kofta Recipe
Step 1: Making the Koftas
In a bowl, mix paneer, mashed potato, cornflour, and cream. Add salt and form smooth, round balls. You can stuff each kofta with a small mixture of cashews and raisins for a sweet surprise. Deep fry the balls until golden brown and crisp. Keep aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Gravy
Heat butter in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant. Add tomato puree, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
Blend soaked cashews into a smooth paste and add it to the gravy. Cook until the mixture thickens and releases oil.
Step 3: Finishing the Dish
Add water to adjust consistency and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cream and garam masala for a luxurious finish. Finally, gently place the fried koftas in the gravy just before serving — this ensures they remain soft yet firm.
The Royal Taste at Saagar Phuket
We believe food should not only satisfy the palate but also tell a story. Our malai kofta recipe is inspired by traditional Mughlai methods — where rich gravies, delicate spices, and slow cooking define the art of Indian cuisine.
Served with soft naan or fragrant basmati rice, our malai kofta curry is a crowd favorite among both Indian travelers and locals in Phuket. Every bite combines smooth texture, nutty undertones, and a hint of sweetness that defines true North Indian food.
Paneer Malai Kofta Variations
There’s more than one way to enjoy malai kofta, and each version has its own charm:
- Traditional Paneer Malai Kofta: Made with paneer and potatoes, fried until golden and soaked in a creamy tomato-cashew sauce.
- Restaurant-Style Kofta: Richer and thicker, featuring butter and cream for a luxurious finish.
- Healthy Kofta: Baked or air-fried koftas served in a light yogurt-based gravy.
- Jain Malai Kofta: Made without onion or garlic, popular among Jain communities.
Our restaurant offer the classic paneer malai kofta, ensuring an authentic and satisfying dining experience.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
The best way to enjoy malai kofta is with hot butter naan, garlic naan, or steamed basmati rice. You can also pair it with jeera rice or parathas for a more traditional touch. A side of cucumber raita or papad makes it a complete Indian feast.
Our team recommends pairing malai kofta with a refreshing mango lassi or chilled buttermilk for a balance of flavors.
FAQs
1. How to make malai kofta?
Mix paneer, potatoes, and cream to make soft koftas, fry them, and serve with a rich tomato-cashew cream gravy.
2. What is malai kofta?
It’s a North Indian curry featuring fried paneer and potato balls in a creamy, mildly spiced gravy.
3. What is malai kofta made of?
Malai kofta is made of paneer, potatoes, cream, and cashew gravy, flavored with Indian spices.
4. How to make malai kofta at home?
Follow a simple process of preparing koftas, making a spiced tomato-cashew gravy, and combining both before serving.