What is Malai Kofta?

Malai Kofta is a luxurious and beloved vegetarian dish in Indian cuisine. Known for its creamy, flavorful curry and rich, melt-in-your-mouth koftas (fried dumplings), Malai Kofta is often reserved for special occasions or indulgent dinners. "Malai" refers to cream, and "Kofta" are spiced balls typically made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), potatoes, and sometimes nuts or raisins.

At Dusmesh Indian Restaurant in Cincinnati, Ohio, Malai Kofta is one of the top choices for vegetarians and curry lovers alike. It offers a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and richness — a true taste of royal North Indian cooking.

Ingredients for Malai Kofta

For the Koftas:

  • 1 cup paneer (grated)
  • 2 boiled potatoes (mashed)
  • 2 tbsp cornflour or all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp chopped cashews
  • 1 tbsp raisins
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Oil for frying

For the Curry:

  • 2 tbsp oil or butter
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tomatoes (pureed)
  • 1/4 cup cashew paste (soaked & blended cashews)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 cup fresh cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Water (as needed)
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe for Malai Kofta

Step 1: Prepare the Koftas

  1. In a large bowl, mix grated paneer, mashed potatoes, salt, and garam masala.
  2. Add flour to bind the mixture. Mix until smooth.
  3. Take a small portion, flatten it, and fill with 1–2 cashews and a raisin.
  4. Roll it into a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.
  5. Deep-fry or air-fry the koftas until golden brown. Set aside on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Curry Base

  1. Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden.
  3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Stir in tomato purée and cook for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Spices and Cashew Paste

  1. Add turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
  2. Stir well and cook until oil separates from the mixture.
  3. Add cashew paste and cook for 2–3 minutes for a rich texture.

Step 4: Add Cream and Simmer

  1. Pour in fresh cream and mix gently.
  2. Adjust the consistency with a bit of water.
  3. Simmer the curry on low heat for 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  1. Just before serving, gently place the fried koftas into the hot curry.
  2. Garnish with cream and fresh coriander leaves.
  3. Serve with naan, roti, or basmati rice.

Why is Malai Kofta Special?

  • 🌿 Vegetarian-Friendly: Made without meat, it’s a popular choice for vegetarian diets.
  • 🍛 Rich & Creamy: The sauce is luxurious, perfect for a royal meal.
  • 🎉 Celebration Dish: Commonly served during festivals, weddings, and special dinners.

Pairing Suggestions

At Dusmesh Indian Restaurant, Malai Kofta is best paired with:

  • Butter Naan or Garlic Naan
  • Steamed Basmati Rice or Jeera Rice
  • Mango Lassi or Rose Falooda

Order Malai Kofta from Dusmesh Indian Restaurant, Cincinnati

Craving a cozy, creamy Indian dish? Look no further than Malai Kofta at Dusmesh Indian Restaurant. Our chefs craft it using fresh paneer, high-quality spices, and a signature tomato-cream base that’s rich and full of flavor.

Whether you're vegetarian or just in the mood for something indulgent, this dish is sure to impress.

About Dusmesh Indian Restaurant

Located near the heart of Cincinnati, Dusmesh Indian Restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Indian dishes prepared with authenticity and care. We pride ourselves on serving:

  • Traditional North Indian recipes
  • Fresh ingredients
  • Vegetarian and vegan options
  • Comfortable dine-in experience

Takeout and catering services

Visit or Contact Us

📍 Dusmesh Indian Restaurant

944 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA

📞 Call: 513-221-8900

📧 Email: [email protected]

🕒 Open Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Dine-in | Takeout | Catering

Final Thoughts

Malai Kofta is a dish that combines luxury with comfort — a creamy, dreamy delight for anyone who loves Indian food. Whether you're enjoying it at home or treating yourself at Dusmesh Indian Restaurant, one thing’s certain: this dish will leave you satisfied and craving more.

Come visit us and savor the best Malai Kofta in Cincinnati today!