Malai Kofta – A Creamy Vegetarian Royalty from Indian Kitchens

Vegetarian | Gluten-Free | Rich & Flavorful

When it comes to indulgent Indian vegetarian cuisine, Malai Kofta stands tall with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, creamy gravy. A royal dish that originated from the Mughlai kitchens, Malai Kofta is an exquisite fusion of mashed vegetables, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cashew nuts, and spices—rolled into soft dumplings (koftas) and gently simmered in a velvety gravy infused with tomatoes, cream, and aromatic herbs.

At Delhi Indian Cuisine in Henderson, Las Vegas, Malai Kofta is a signature dish served with flair, warmth, and authenticity. Let’s explore the magic behind this luxurious Indian entrée.

What is Malai Kofta?

“Malai” means cream, and “Kofta” refers to a meatless or meat-based dumpling. In this vegetarian version, koftas are made with mashed potatoes, carrots, green peas, paneer, and cashew paste, offering a delightful softness with every bite. Once deep-fried to a golden brown, these koftas are gently placed into a thick, buttery tomato-based sauce flavored with ginger, garlic, cardamom, and cream.

It’s comfort food that speaks the language of royalty—fitting for dinner parties, festive meals, or even as a weekend indulgence.

Ingredients for the Kofta (Makes 6–8 balls)

  • 1 cup grated paneer
  • 2 boiled and mashed potatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped mixed veggies (carrots, peas, beans)
  • 1 tbsp cashew paste or crushed cashews
  • 1 tbsp cornflour or arrowroot powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp garam masala
  • Oil for deep frying

Ingredients for the Gravy

  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 large tomatoes (pureed)
  • 8–10 cashews (soaked and ground into paste)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Kofta Balls

In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, grated paneer, chopped vegetables, crushed cashews, cornflour, salt, and garam masala. Mix well to form a soft dough. Shape the mixture into round or oval kofta balls.

Heat oil in a pan and deep-fry the balls until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.

2. Make the Gravy

Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and stir until fragrant.

Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates. Add turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.

Add cashew paste and cook on medium heat. Stir in cream and simmer until the gravy thickens to a rich consistency. Finish with garam masala and garnish with fresh cilantro.

3. Assemble the Dish

Place the hot koftas gently in a serving bowl. Pour the creamy gravy over them just before serving to retain the crispy texture of the koftas. Pair with warm naan, tandoori roti, or fragrant basmati rice.

Why Choose Malai Kofta?

  • 100% Vegetarian & Gluten-Free
  • Mild yet rich in Indian flavors
  • Perfect for special occasions and festive meals
  • Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Whether you are a vegetarian or just exploring Indian flavors, Malai Kofta offers a gourmet experience that’s both comforting and celebratory.

🏪 Where to Taste the Best Malai Kofta?

Visit us at:

Delhi Indian Cuisine – Henderson

📍 8810 S Maryland Pkwy, Suite 125, Las Vegas, NV 89123

📞 (702) 472-7703

✉️ delhilasvegas@gmail.com

Taste the richness of tradition with our handcrafted Malai Kofta—made fresh daily by our expert chefs.