Malai Kofta

Malai kofta is a rich, comforting dish from North India that’s often served at celebrations and restaurants. Traditionally made with paneer and cream, this plant-based version swaps in tofu and cashew cream, making it completely plant-based. 

Ingredients

Calories: 441 Protein: 24 g

For the kofta balls

  • 4.0 potatoes, boiled/steamed, peeled, and grated
  • 8.0 oz. tofu, drained, rinsed, gently squeezed, then grated
  • 2.0 tbsp. cornstarch
  • .5 tsp. cardamom powder
  • .5 tsp. ground black pepper
  • 1.0 tsp. salt (or to taste)
  • 2.0 tbsp.  finely chopped dry fruits or nuts (e.g. cashews, almonds, raisins – mixed)
  • oil, as needed – for deep frying or brushing if baking

For the malai sauce

  • 1.0 tsp. ginger powder
  • 1.0 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1.0 tsp. green chili paste
  • .5 cups thick cashew cream (made by soaking cashews and blending with minimal water)
  • .75 tsp. salt (or to taste)
  • .25 tsp. cardamom powder
  • .5 tsp. sugar (optional)

Preparation

 

For the kofta balls:

  1. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the grated potatoes and grated tofu using a fork or spoon. Add all the remaining kofta ingredients and mix until well combined.
  2. Prepare your surface: Lightly dust a clean plate or countertop with cornstarch. Rub a little cornstarch on your palms and fingers to prevent sticking.
  3. Shape the balls: Take a small amount of the potato-tofu mixture and form it into a ball. Press a hole into the center with your finger. Place a few chopped nuts or dried fruits inside, then close the hole and reshape the ball into an oval or cylindrical shape.
  4. Fry until golden: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, deep fry the kofta balls in batches until golden brown. Remove them and drain on paper towels. Set aside.

For the malai sauce:

  1. Cook the aromatics: In a pan over medium heat, dry sauté the ginger powder and garlic powder for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. You can add a small amount of oil if preferred.
  2. Add spice and cream: Stir in the green chili paste (if using), then add the cashew cream. 
  3. Season the sauce: Add salt, cardamom powder, and ground black pepper (if using). Stir well. Optionally, add a little sugar.
  4. Simmer gently: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water only if it becomes too thick.

Assemble and serve:

  1. Add the koftas to the sauce: While the sauce is gently simmering, carefully add the fried kofta balls. Stir very gently to avoid breaking them.
  2. Simmer briefly: Add a small splash of water if needed to maintain a gentle simmer. Let the koftas cook in the sauce for 1 minute, then turn off the heat.
  3. Serve: Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

Tips

 

For a healthier option: Instead of deep frying, lightly brush the kofta balls with oil and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned.

*Adapted from a recipe by Susmitha Subbaraju at blog.veganosaurus.com