Dairy-free Malai Kofta With Creamy Cashew Curry

Malai kofta is an extremely popular Mughlai dish, especially among North Indians. Deep-fried vegetables, potato, or tofu balls coated with batter, and soaked in a rich and creamy gravy made from cashews and tomato purée – it’s an indulgent dish that’ll make your mouth water! As it’s considered a delicacy among many, malai kofta is often a preferred dinner option when you have guests over or during festivities and special occasions. Over the years, there have been many variations to the dish – with different options, kofta fillings, and exotic aromatic alternatives for the gravy.

Photo Credit - Susannah Louise 

METHOD FOR CURRY

1. Pour the oil in a wide pan and heat it. Once it turns hot, add onion paste and sauté until it turns brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and stir for few minutes.

2. Add slit green chilies and stir again for a minute.

3. Add chili and turmeric powders, and stir for a few minutes.

4. Now add tomato purée and cook well for 10 minutes until the raw smell evaporates.

5. Add 2 teaspoons garam masala powder and cook for 5 minutes.

6. Add cashew paste and ½ cup soya milk and cook for another 5 minutes.

7. Add dried kasuri methi leaves and cook for a few minutes. Add salt as required and stir well. Keep the gravy aside now.

METHOD FOR KOFTA

1. Grate the tofu and potatoes in a plate.

Photo Credit - Susannah Louise 

2. Mix 1 teaspoon garam masala, required salt, and cornstarch together.

Photo Credit - Susannah Louise 

3. Shape them into small balls in the palms of your hands and set aside.

Photo Credit - Susannah Louise 

4. Heat oil in a wide pan. Gently place the balls in the oil and deep fry them. Slowly move the balls in the oil to make sure they evenly turn golden brown.

Photo Credit - Susannah Louise 

5. Now remove the balls onto a plate lined with tissue paper.

6. Once the balls have rested, dip them into the gravy and heat the gravy on a low flame. Allow it to cook for another 7 minutes.

Photo Credit - Susannah Louise 

7. Garnish with chopped coriander.

8. Serve with hot chapati or rice.

Here is a video for you to watch and learn the cooking steps with ease.