Paneer Kofta Recipe is a delicious North Indian dish with crispy paneer balls (koftas) in a creamy, spiced gravy. It’s a favorite at celebrations and restaurants! Although it sounds tricky, you can make it at home easily. It's super popular in Punjabi homes and perfect for special meals!
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What is Paneer Kofta?
Paneer Kofta Recipe is a popular North Indian dish, made with soft, delicious paneer balls (koftas) swimming in a creamy, spiced gravy. Not only does it offer a perfect balance of flavors, but it also combines richness with a touch of spice, making it an irresistible treat!
These koftas are made with cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, and a blend of flavorful spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. As a result, they are both hearty and aromatic, making them a perfect comfort food!
It’s a dish that’s both rich and indulgent, perfect for special occasions or celebrations!
At first, the idea of making kofta might sound tricky. However, if you follow the steps carefully, you can make it just like your favorite restaurant dish!
Plus, it’s a great way to try new spices and flavors! So, next time you’re craving something creamy, this is the dish to make!
Why Paneer Kofta?
Paneer Kofta recipe is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, thanks to its indulgent and comforting flavors! As a result, it's the perfect choice for any special meal or celebration.
The soft, cheesy koftas in creamy, spicy gravy are a true treat for your taste buds.
Often served on special occasions like Diwali, it brings warmth and joy to the table.
Whether it’s a festive meal or a regular dinner, Paneer Kofta recipe makes every meal feel luxurious and special. With a perfect balance of rich and savory, it’s a family favorite!
Why Paneer Kofta is a Favorite
- Paneer as a Protein: Paneer is packed with protein and calcium, making it a healthy, filling choice for vegetarians. It's a versatile ingredient in many tasty Indian dishes!
- Texture of the Koftas: The soft, pillowy koftas combined with the spicy, creamy gravy create a rich, flavorful bite every time!
- Koftas in Indian Cuisine: Apart from Paneer Kofta, there are other delicious options like Malai Kofta and Lauki Kofta, showcasing the variety of kofta dishes in Indian food.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Whether for celebrations or weeknight dinners, Paneer Kofta offers indulgence and nutrition, making it a favorite for many!
Craving more deliciousness? Why not give these a try:
- Paneer 65 – Spicy, crispy, and absolutely addictive!
- Paneer Butter Masala – Creamy, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth!
- Paneer Bread Roll – A perfect snack that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside!
- Matar Paneer – Classic comfort food with peas and paneer in a savory gravy!
- Palak Paneer – Nutritious and flavorful, this spinach-based curry will win your heart!
What You'll Need to Make This Paneer Kofta Recipe?
Key Ingredients:
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
- Soft, mild, rich in protein and calcium. A must-have for vegetarians. My mom always keeps a block of paneer ready in the fridge for any meal—especially for Paneer Kofta!
- Potatoes
- Mashed potatoes bind the koftas and give them a light, pillowy texture. My grandma would make sure the potatoes were perfectly mashed; otherwise, the koftas wouldn’t be soft enough!
- Spices (Cumin, Garam Masala, Coriander, Turmeric)
- Adds warmth, flavor, and depth to both the koftas and the gravy.
- Tip: A pinch of garam masala at the end elevates the aroma. My aunt swears by it!
- Tomatoes & Onions
- Forms the base for the creamy, tangy gravy. My cousin added extra tomatoes to sweeten the gravy when we were kids, and we all loved it!
- Cream & Yogurt
- Makes the gravy rich, smooth, and indulgent. During festivals, my mom would always use fresh cream, making the dish even more special!
- Coriander Leaves
- Fresh cilantro for garnish, adding color and freshness. Picking fresh coriander from our garden is a fun family tradition.
See the recipe card for exact quantities
How to Make Paneer Kofta?
Step by Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Koftas
- Firstly, mix together grated paneer, mashed potatoes, cornstarch, garam masala, and salt in a large bowl. Afterward, ensure everything is well combined to form a smooth mixture.
- Then, shape the mixture into smooth balls, and you can stuff them with dry fruit if you want.
2. Shape the Koftas
- Next, heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully slide the koftas into the hot oil and fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- After that, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
3. Fry the Koftas
- Next, heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat. Then, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the koftas.
- Carefully slide the koftas into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they turn golden brown and crisp on all sides.
- Afterward, remove the koftas using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Then, set them aside for later use.
4. Make the Gravy
- Now, heat butter in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Then, stir in ginger-garlic paste, tomato puree, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
- Cook until the oil separates from the gravy.
5. Combine and Serve
- Finally, gently add the fried koftas to the simmering gravy and let them soak for a few minutes.
- Finally, garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Then, serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice!
Cooking Methods
1. Frying
To begin with, frying koftas in hot oil creates a perfectly crispy outer layer while keeping the inside soft and tender. As a result, this method brings out a rich, indulgent flavor that’s hard to resist!
2. Baking
In contrast, baking koftas uses less oil, making them a healthier choice. Even though they may not be as crispy as the fried version, they still retain a satisfying texture, making them a lighter alternative.
3. Air-Frying
Alternatively, air-frying is an excellent method that uses hot air to crisp the koftas with minimal oil. Thus, you can enjoy a deliciously crunchy bite with significantly less fat—perfect for a guilt-free treat!
Gravy Variations
1. Tomato-Based Gravy
First, the classic tomato-based gravy stands out with its tangy and zesty flavor. It perfectly balances the richness of the koftas, with a blend of spices and onions, making every bite burst with savory goodness.
2. Cream-Based Gravy
On the other hand, the cream-based gravy is decadently smooth and velvety. It adds a luxurious touch to the dish, complementing the crispy koftas with its rich, indulgent texture.
3. Yogurt-Based Gravy
Alternatively, the yogurt-based gravy is refreshing and slightly tangy. Lighter than its counterparts, it adds a subtle zing that enhances the flavor of the koftas, creating a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Paneer Kofta?
- With Flatbreads: Firstly, pair Paneer Kofta with soft naan, roti, or paratha to soak up the rich gravy. It’s the perfect combo for a comforting meal!
- With Rice: Serve with jeera rice, pilaf, or saffron rice to balance the heaviness of the koftas. It adds a fragrant touch to the dish.
- Side Dishes: Pair with cucumber raita, onion salad, or mint chutney to cut through the richness. A refreshing side enhances the meal perfectly!
Variations
1. Baked Paneer Kofta: For a healthier version, bake the koftas instead of frying for a golden, crispy texture without the extra oil.
2. Stuffed Paneer Kofta: Try stuffing the koftas with cashews, raisins, or spicy potato for a fun twist.
3. Vegan Koftas: Swap paneer with tofu and use coconut milk or vegan cream for a dairy-free option.
4. Kofta Curry with a Twist: Add spinach for palak kofta or pumpkin puree for a flavorful new take on the gravy.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your koftas stay intact, first, mix the ingredients thoroughly and shape them into firm, smooth balls.
Moreover, if the koftas are too oily, ensure the oil is at the right temperature — it should be hot enough to cook them quickly without absorbing excess oil.
Additionally, adding cornstarch helps bind the koftas and makes them crispier. Lastly, let the shaped koftas rest for 15 minutes before frying — this will help firm them up and prevent breaking during cooking.
Time Saving Tips & Meal Prep
1. Make-Ahead Koftas: Firstly, prepare the koftas and gravy in advance. You can store them separately in the fridge for 2-3 days. This way, you save time on busy days!
2. Freezing Koftas: You can freeze uncooked koftas (before frying) for up to a month. Then, fry them fresh whenever needed, for a quick meal!
3. Batch Cooking: Lastly, make a double batch of both koftas and gravy. This way, you’ll have leftovers ready or a meal prepped for future dinners! Consequently, you’ll have more time for yourself.
Did you try this Paneer Kofta recipe? Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below and share it on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!
❔FAQs
To make Paneer Kofta, mix grated paneer with mashed potatoes, cornstarch, and spices to form balls. Fry the balls until golden brown, then simmer them in a creamy tomato gravy made with onions, ginger-garlic paste, and spices.
Yes, you can prepare the koftas and gravy in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently heat the gravy and add the koftas just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
To make Paneer Kofta healthier, consider baking or shallow-frying the koftas instead of deep-frying. You can also use less cream and add more vegetables to the gravy.
Yes, you can freeze both the koftas and the gravy separately. Freeze the koftas after frying and cool completely before storing. The gravy can be frozen in airtight containers. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
You can try adding various ingredients to the kofta mixture, such as grated carrots, spinach, or finely chopped nuts. For the gravy, you can experiment with different spices or add vegetables like peas or bell peppers.
Paneer Kofta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Koftas
- 200 gram Paneer grated
- 2 Boiled Potatoes medium, mashed
- 2 tablespoon Corn starch
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- Salt to taste
- 1 Cup Oil for frying
For the Gravy
- 3 Tomatoes large, pureed
- 1 Onion large, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
- 1 Cup Cream or Cashew Paste
- 2 tablespoon Butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Coriander Leaves for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Koftas
- Firstly, mix together grated paneer, mashed potatoes, cornstarch, garam masala, and salt in a large bowl. Afterward, ensure everything is well combined to form a smooth mixture.
- Then, shape the mixture into smooth balls, and you can stuff them with dry fruit if you want.
Shape the Koftas
- Next, heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully slide the koftas into the hot oil and fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- After that, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
Fry the Koftas
- Next, heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat. Then, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the koftas.
- Carefully slide the koftas into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they turn golden brown and crisp on all sides.
- Afterward, remove the koftas using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Then, set them aside for later use.
Make the Gravy
- Now, heat butter in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Then, stir in ginger-garlic paste, tomato puree, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
- Cook until the oil separates from the gravy.
Combine and Serve
- Finally, gently add the fried koftas to the simmering gravy and let them soak for a few minutes.
- Finally, garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Then, serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice!
Notes
Gravy Variations
1. Tomato-Based GravyFirst, the classic tomato-based gravy stands out with its tangy and zesty flavor. It perfectly balances the richness of the koftas, with a blend of spices and onions, making every bite burst with savory goodness. 2. Cream-Based Gravy
On the other hand, the cream-based gravy is decadently smooth and velvety. It adds a luxurious touch to the dish, complementing the crispy koftas with its rich, indulgent texture. 3. Yogurt-Based Gravy
Alternatively, the yogurt-based gravy is refreshing and slightly tangy. Lighter than its counterparts, it adds a subtle zing that enhances the flavor of the koftas, creating a delightful contrast.
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