Malai Kofta, a dish steeped in the grandeur of Indian culinary tradition, is a symphony of soft, melt-in-your-mouth paneer and vegetable balls, bathed in a creamy, lusciously rich tomato-based sauce. This reinterpretation elevates the classic by deconstructing its elements, presenting a modern, visually stunning iteration that maintains the heartwarming, aromatic allure of its origins. The saffron-infused tomato coulis introduces an opulent twist, enhancing the dish's vibrant color and adding a layer of exquisite flavor. Every bite is a journey through contrasting textures and harmonious flavors, designed to delight the senses.

Ingredients

Serving Size: Serves 4

From Your Pantry

• 1 cup Paneer (crumbled)
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Saffron strands
• 1/4 cup Warm milk

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• 1 cup Mixed vegetables (finely chopped and boiled)
• 1 large Tomato (pureed)
• 1 inch Ginger (minced)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 Green chili (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Cashews (for garnish)
• Microgreens and edible flowers (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Kofta Balls: In a large bowl, mix crumbled paneer, boiled mixed vegetables, all-purpose flour, garam masala, and salt. Form into small, bite-sized balls. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and fry the kofta balls until golden brown. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
2. Saffron-Infused Tomato Coulis: In a small bowl, soak saffron strands in warm milk for 10 minutes to release their color and aroma. In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced ginger, garlic, and green chili, sautéing until fragrant. Add tomato puree, sugar, saffron-infused milk, and salt to taste. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Creamy Sauce: In a separate pan, gently heat the heavy cream, being careful not to bring it to a boil. Season with salt to taste.

Expert Tips

• For a vegan version, replace paneer with tofu and heavy cream with coconut milk.
• Ensure the kofta balls are not overcrowded in the pan while frying to achieve an even golden crust.
• The saffron-infused milk can be prepared in advance to intensify its flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, spoon the saffron-infused tomato coulis onto a plate, creating a vibrant base. Arrange the kofta balls elegantly over the coulis. Drizzle with the warm, creamy sauce and garnish with cashews, microgreens, and edible flowers for an added touch of elegance and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with naan or basmati rice, offering a balance of flavors and textures that are sure to impress.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 24g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Allergens: Paneer (Milk), All-purpose flour (Gluten), Cashews (Tree Nuts)

We encourage you to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to experiment with your own variations. Whether it's by tweaking the spices, incorporating different vegetables, or playing with the presentation, there's always room to make this dish uniquely yours. Happy cooking!