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:
- 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.
- Prepare your surface: Lightly dust a clean plate or countertop with cornstarch. Rub a little cornstarch on your palms and fingers to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- Add spice and cream: Stir in the green chili paste (if using), then add the cashew cream.
- Season the sauce: Add salt, cardamom powder, and ground black pepper (if using). Stir well. Optionally, add a little sugar.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
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