Malai Kofta
A luxurious vegetarian classic from North Indian cuisine, Malai Kofta is a rich, indulgent curry featuring soft, melt-in-your-mouth koftas (fried dumplings) served in a smooth, creamy gravy. The koftas are usually made from mashed potatoes, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and sometimes nuts or dried fruits, which give them a soft texture and subtle sweetness. These balls are seasoned with mild spices, shaped by hand, and deep-fried until golden and crisp on the outside, yet soft and tender inside.

The gravy is a luscious blend of pureed onions, tomatoes, cashew or almond paste, fresh cream, and aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and mild garam masala. This sauce is cooked slowly with butter or ghee until it becomes velvety smooth and mildly sweet, complementing the richness of the koftas perfectly.

Malai Kofta is usually finished with a swirl of fresh cream and a sprinkle of chopped coriander or nuts for an extra touch of elegance. Best enjoyed hot with naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice, it’s a celebratory dish that’s loved for its decadent taste and royal presentation.