Malai Kofta Recipe for Weight Loss

Malai Kofta Recipe for Weight Loss is a medium Indian recipe that serves 2. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Indian Weight Loss Diet by Richa on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 32 min | Total: 1 hr 17 min

Cost: $11.19 total, $5.59 per serving

Ingredients

  • 200 grams Paneer (grated)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Cardamom Powder (ground)
  • 1 teaspoon Kasuri Methi (crushed)
  • 4 tablespoons Ghee (for frying koftas and gravy)
  • 5 pieces Almonds (soaked, peeled)
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (peeled)
  • 1 inch Ginger (peeled, minced)
  • 1 medium Onion (diced)
  • 1 piece Green Chili (halved)
  • 1 medium Tomato (diced)
  • 2 teaspoons Kashmiri Red Chili Powder (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds (whole)
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder (ground)
  • 1 teaspoon Kitchen King Masala (Indian spice blend)
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala (ground)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons Heavy Cream (Full Fat) (unsweetened)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted)
  • 1 piece Bay Leaf (whole)
  • 1 small piece Cinnamon Stick (whole)
  • 2 pieces Cloves (whole)
  • 1 cup Hot Water (for simmering gravy)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Vegetables

    Finely dice the onion and tomato, halve the green chili, peel and crush the garlic cloves, peel and mince the ginger. Set aside in separate bowls.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Make Paneer Kofta Mixture

    In a mixing bowl combine grated paneer, salt, 1 tsp cardamom powder, and crushed kasuri methi. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, pliable dough forms.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Shape Koftas

    Lightly grease your palms with a little ghee. Take small portions of the paneer mixture and roll into smooth, round balls about 2‑3 cm in diameter.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Fry Koftas

    Heat 2 tbsp ghee in the cast‑iron pan over medium heat. Gently slide the koftas into the hot ghee and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3‑4 minutes per batch.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  5. Temper Whole Spices

    In a clean cast‑iron pan, melt 1 tbsp ghee. Add bay leaf, green cardamom, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  6. Sauté Aromatics

    Add the diced onion, garlic, ginger, and green chili to the pan. Stir‑fry until the onion turns translucent, about 3 minutes.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  7. Add Tomatoes and Almonds

    Add the diced tomato and the peeled soaked almonds. Cook for another 2 minutes until the tomato softens.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  8. Create Gravy Base

    Stir in 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder and salt to taste. Add hot water (1 cup) and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove the whole spices and set the gravy aside to cool.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  9. Second Tempering

    In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp ghee. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Sprinkle 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder and stir quickly.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  10. Combine Pastes and Spices

    Add the cooled tomato‑almond paste from step 7 into the pan. Mix in coriander powder, Kitchen King masala, garam masala, and a pinch of cardamom powder. Cook for 4 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  11. Finish Gravy

    Crush a small amount of kasuri methi between your palms and add to the gravy. Stir in 3 tbsp heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes until the gravy turns glossy.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Low heat

  12. Assemble and Serve

    Place the fried koftas into the creamy gravy, let them soak for 1‑2 minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with roti or brown rice.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Low heat

Nutrition Facts

Calories
450
Protein
16 g
Carbohydrates
12 g
Fat
35 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, High Protein, Gluten-Free, Keto‑friendly (moderate carbs)

Allergens: Dairy, Nuts

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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Malai Kofta Recipe for Weight Loss

Recipe by Indian Weight Loss Diet by Richa

A rich yet weight‑loss‑friendly Indian vegetarian kofta made with grated paneer, aromatic spices, and a silky full‑fat cream gravy. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner that supports a healthy diet.

MediumIndianServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
24m
Prep
26m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$11.19
Total cost
$5.59
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Mix paneer with spices until a smooth, non‑crumbly dough forms.
  • Shape koftas with lightly greased hands to prevent sticking.
  • Fry koftas just until golden; over‑frying makes them hard.
  • Remove whole spices after the initial tempering to avoid overpowering the gravy.
  • Add kasuri methi and cream at the very end for aromatic finish.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot ghee can cause severe burns; handle with care.
  • Use a splatter guard when frying koftas.
  • Be cautious when removing whole spices; they may be hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Veg Creamy Kofta in Indian cuisine?

A

Kofta, originally a Persian meatball, was adapted by Indian cooks using paneer and vegetables, creating a vegetarian version that became popular in North Indian festive meals. The creamy tomato‑almond gravy reflects Mughlai influences, making it a beloved comfort dish.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of kofta in Indian cuisine?

A

In North India, paneer or vegetable koftas are served in rich gravies like this one. In Bengal, koftas are often made with chhena and served in mustard‑based sauces. South Indian versions may use lentil‑based balls cooked in coconut gravy.

cultural
Q

How is Veg Creamy Kofta traditionally served in Indian households?

A

It is typically served hot with Indian breads such as naan, roti, or paratha, and sometimes with steamed basmati or brown rice. A garnish of fresh coriander and a side of cucumber raita complete the meal.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Veg Creamy Kofta associated with in Indian culture?

A

Kofta dishes are common at festivals like Diwali and Navratri, as well as at weddings and special family gatherings because of their rich flavor and festive appearance.

cultural
Q

How does Veg Creamy Kofta fit into the broader Indian vegetarian cuisine tradition?

A

It exemplifies the Indian tradition of creating hearty, protein‑rich vegetarian dishes using dairy, nuts, and spices, allowing vegetarians to enjoy a luxurious, satisfying meal without meat.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Veg Creamy Kofta versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include paneer, full‑fat cream, almonds, ghee, and a blend of whole spices. Substitutes can be tofu for paneer, Greek yogurt for cream, or cashews for almonds, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

cultural
Q

What other Indian dishes pair well with Veg Creamy Kofta?

A

Pair it with plain basmati rice, jeera rice, or whole‑wheat roti. A side of cucumber‑mint raita or a simple green salad balances the richness of the kofta gravy.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Veg Creamy Kofta at home?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the paneer mixture (making it tough), frying koftas too long (making them hard), and leaving whole spices in the gravy (causing bitterness). Follow the critical steps to prevent these issues.

technical
Q

Why does this Veg Creamy Kofta recipe use ghee for frying instead of oil?

A

Ghee has a higher smoke point and imparts a nutty, authentic Indian flavor that complements the paneer and almond gravy, while also keeping the dish suitable for a weight‑loss plan due to its stable fats.

technical
Q

Can I make Veg Creamy Kofta ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Fry the koftas and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Prepare the gravy a day ahead, keep it sealed, and reheat gently before adding the koftas. This saves time on busy weekdays.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Indian Weight Loss Diet by Richa specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Indian Weight Loss Diet by Richa focuses on low‑calorie, high‑protein Indian recipes, diet plans, and motivational content aimed at helping viewers lose weight while enjoying traditional flavors.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Indian Weight Loss Diet by Richa's approach to Indian cooking differ from other Indian cooking channels?

A

Richa emphasizes portion control, ingredient swaps for lower calories, and quick preparation methods, whereas many other Indian cooking channels prioritize indulgent, restaurant‑style dishes without a specific weight‑loss focus.

channel

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