Paneer Kofta turns simple ingredients into something magical. This recipe takes fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and transforms it into delicate dumplings that are fried until golden. The creamy tomato gravy is packed with warm spices and has just the right balance of flavors. I learned this recipe from my grandmother, and it’s been a family favorite for special occasions.
About the Recipe
This recipe hits all the right notes – it’s creamy, rich, and satisfying. The koftas are crispy outside but melt in your mouth, while the gravy is smooth and full of flavor. It’s easier to make than you might think, and the results are truly impressive. Perfect for when you want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and wow factor. The koftas come together quickly with just a few ingredients, and the gravy can be made ahead of time. You’ll love how the crispy koftas soak up the rich gravy, creating the perfect bite every time. It’s also vegetarian and can be adjusted to your spice preference.
Paneer Kofta
Cooking Tips
– Make sure your oil is hot enough when frying koftas (test with a small piece)
– Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying
– Add koftas to the gravy just before serving to keep them crispy
– Grate the paneer if it’s too firm to mash
– Keep the gravy slightly thick so it coats the koftas well
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-6 people. Total prep and cooking time: 45 minutes. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice. Store gravy separately from koftas in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gravy gently and fry koftas again for best results.
Similar Recipes
- Malai Kofta (made with potato and paneer)
- Lauki Kofta (bottle gourd dumplings)
- Vegetable Kofta Curry
- Cheese Corn Balls
Nutrient Benefits
Paneer is high in protein and calcium, making this dish nutritious as well as delicious. The spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties. Cashews provide healthy fats and minerals, while tomatoes add vitamin C and antioxidants.
Paneer Kofta
Ingredients
For koftas:
- 200 gms paneer
- 4-6 green chilies
- 4 tsp corn flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- Salt to taste
- 25 gms cashew nuts
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
For gravy:
- 2 onions (chopped)
- 3-4 tomatoes (blend to fine puree)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 75 gms oil
- Coriander leaves (chopped)
Instructions
Method:
- Take the paneer into a bowl and press with your fingers until it is smooth. To this, add corn flour, baking powder, chopped green chilies, cashews, little garam masala, salt and mix well.
- Make small balls from this mixture and fry in hot oil until golden brown. Keep them aside.
For Gravy:
- Heat the oil. Add cumin seeds in it. Fry for a minute.
- Add the ground onions and fry the paste very well. Add ginger-garlic paste and fry for few minutes.
- Add the tomato puree, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Fry the paste in medium heat till the oil leaves the side of the pan.
- Add cream, salt to taste and half cup of water. Bring to a boil on full heat. Reduce heat and simmer for at least 15 minutes.
- Add the koftas to the gravy just before you serve.
- Garnish with coriander leaves. Serve hot with Roti, Poori or Nan.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the koftas ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape and fry the koftas up to 4 hours in advance. Keep them at room temperature and warm them slightly before adding to the gravy.
My koftas break while frying. What am I doing wrong?
This usually happens if the mixture is too wet. Add a bit more corn flour to bind the mixture better, and make sure the oil is hot enough before frying.
Can I bake the koftas instead of frying?
While traditional koftas are fried, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Brush with oil for a crispy exterior.
6 comments
it is very good we enjoyed lot we have very good prestige with relatives thanks for sending
it is very good we enjoyed lot we have very good prestige with relatives thanks for sending
hmmm too good….its my hubb’s fav dish ….got a gift 4 preparin this dish…thanks all coz of u….
too good….tried it …its my hubb’s fav dish ….got nice gift ….all coz of u…
jhakaas!!!!!!!!!!!1
yummy