Get ready to experience a royal treat with Shahi Malai Kofta – a dish that turns every meal into a grand feast. Whether you love cooking at home, enjoy trying new foods, or own a restaurant, Shahi Malai Kofta is a dish that promises an unforgettable experience. This Mughlai masterpiece is not just a meal; it’s a mix of delicious flavors and textures that will leave you and your guests wanting more. With its creamy richness and the wonderful mix of spices that tickle your taste buds, this dish is like a special treat. Get set to make a fantastic dish that will turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories!
Origin and History
Shahi Malai Kofta, also known as “Navratan Kofta” or “Royal Creamy Balls,” has its roots in the Mughal era in India. This dish has been enjoyed by royalty for centuries, with each bite carrying the essence of the grand Mughal kitchens. The word “Shahi” itself means royal, and this kofta curry lives up to its name with its opulent taste and appearance. Over time, different regions have added diverse flavors to this recipe, making it a versatile and beloved dish across the country.
Nutritional Facts
Before getting into the kitchen, let’s take a quick look at the healthy aspects of this yummy dish. Here’s a breakdown of the total calories:
- Calories per serving: Around 400 calories
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fats: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
Ingredients You'll Need
Now, let’s gather the ingredients to create this culinary masterpiece:
For the Koftas:
- 2 cups grated paneer (cottage cheese)
- 1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup finely chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)
- 2 tablespoons cornflour
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup cashew nuts, soaked in warm water
- 1 cup fresh cream
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
Kitchen Tools
To make your cooking experience easier, ensure you have the following tools ready:
Step by Step Process for making Shahi Malai kofta
For the Koftas:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, cornflour, and salt.
- Mix well to form a smooth, even mixture.
- Shape the Koftas:
- Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into round balls.
- Heat oil in a pan and deep fry the koftas until golden brown.
- Set aside on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.
For the Gravy:
- Blend the Cashews:
- In a blender, blend soaked cashews with a little water to form a smooth paste.
- Prepare the Base:
- In a non-stick pan, heat ghee and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Create the Tomato Base:
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
- Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- Introduce Cashew Paste:
- Pour in the cashew paste and mix well, allowing the gravy to thicken.
- Bring in the Cream and Yogurt:
- Add fresh cream and yogurt, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Sprinkle garam masala for an extra burst of flavor.
- Combine Koftas and Gravy:
- Gently place the fried koftas into the prepared gravy.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the koftas absorb the rich flavors.
Tips for Cooking
- Perfect Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding water or cream according to your preference.
- Enhance Flavors: For an extra layer of taste, sprinkle a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) before serving.
- Make-Ahead Koftas: Fry the koftas in advance and refrigerate. Add them to the gravy just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
Serve
Your Shahi Malai Kofta is now ready to be served! Pair it with warm naan or steamed basmati rice to soak up the creamy goodness. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and added freshness.
Variation and Other Options
Vegetarian Options:
- Paneer Kofta: Replace potatoes with extra paneer for a richer kofta.
- Mixed Veg Kofta: Experiment with different vegetables in the kofta mixture to create a colorful blend.
Non-Vegetarian Options:
- Chicken Kofta: Swap paneer with minced chicken for a meaty variation.
- Malai Fish Kofta: Introduce fish fillets into the kofta mixture for a seafood twist.
Cost of Making
The ingredients for Shahi Malai Kofta are reasonably priced and easily available. On average, the cost of making this dish for four people is around INR 500, making it an affordable yet luxurious addition to your menu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shahi Malai Kofta is not just a dish; it’s a celebration on a plate. Its rich history, combined with the simplicity of its preparation, makes it a perfect choice for both the experienced chef and the home cook. So, gather your ingredients, put on your chef’s hat, and get ready to impress with this royal masterpiece. Your journey to creating a culinary spectacle awaits – let the flavors of Shahi Malai Kofta transport you to a world of regal indulgence!
