Malai Kofta – Rich & Creamy Indian Vegetarian Delight
- Tom Henderson
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Malai Kofta – India’s Most Luxurious Vegetarian Dish
If you’re searching for a vegetarian dish that feels festive, indulgent, and deeply satisfying, then look no further than Malai Kofta. Rich, flavorful, and fit for royalty, this North Indian specialty is a shining star of Indian vegetarian cuisine.
At Delhi Indian Cuisine, our Malai Kofta is made from tender vegetable and paneer balls (called “koftas”), mixed with ground cashews, herbs, and Indian spices, then simmered in a luxurious, creamy tomato-onion gravy. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and a favorite among those looking for comfort food that also feels like a celebration.

🧀 What Is Malai Kofta?
Let’s break it down:
"Malai" means cream in Hindi, symbolizing the creamy texture of the gravy.
"Kofta" refers to fried or baked dumplings, similar to meatballs, but in this case made with mashed vegetables, Indian cottage cheese (paneer), and nuts.
The result? A melt-in-your-mouth dish where crispy koftas soak up the velvety richness of the gravy. It’s perfect for both special occasions and weeknight indulgence.
🌱 Ingredients That Set It Apart
What makes our Malai Kofta so unique is the freshness of ingredients and the balanced use of spices. Each kofta is handcrafted with love and expertise.
For the Kofta (Vegetable Balls):
Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – for protein and creaminess
Boiled potatoes & mixed vegetables – mashed and spiced
Chopped cashews & raisins – for a slight crunch and sweetness inside
Corn flour or besan (chickpea flour) – used as a binder (gluten-free)
A pinch of garam masala, coriander, and chili powder for flavor
For the Gravy:
Tomatoes & onions – slow-cooked into a smooth paste
Fresh cream or cashew cream – to achieve a rich, silky base
Ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, cumin, cardamom, and coriander powder
Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – added at the end for a subtle earthy note
We do not use wheat, flour, or artificial thickeners, making our Malai Kofta entirely gluten-free.
👨🍳 How We Make Malai Kofta at Delhi Indian Cuisine
1. Mix & Shape the Kofta
We combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and spices with cashews and raisins for a soft yet slightly textured dough. This mixture is rolled into round balls.
2. Fry or Bake
The koftas are then lightly fried (or baked for a healthier version) until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.
3. Prepare the Gravy
We sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden, add tomatoes and spices, and blend it all into a smooth paste. The addition of cream and crushed cashews makes the sauce ultra-rich and flavorful.
4. Combine & Simmer
Just before serving, the koftas are gently placed into the gravy and allowed to soak up the creamy deliciousness. The final result is a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.
🍽️ Perfect Pairings with Malai Kofta
While Malai Kofta can shine on its own, it becomes unforgettable when paired with:
Butter Naan or Garlic Naan – to scoop up the luscious gravy
Jeera Rice or Basmati Rice – a light base for the rich curry
Plain Roti or Paratha – for a whole wheat alternative
Mango Lassi or Masala Chai – the perfect beverage to balance the richness
Looking for a full meal? Pair it with dal tadka, vegetable samosas, or cucumber raita.
📍 Where to Try Malai Kofta in Henderson, NV
Craving Malai Kofta that’s creamy, hearty, and truly authentic? Visit us at:
📍 Delhi Indian CuisineAddress: 8810 S Maryland Pkwy, Suite 125, Las Vegas, NV 89123📞 Phone: (702) 472-7703
We serve the Henderson and Las Vegas area with freshly made, gluten-free, vegetarian Indian food in a warm, welcoming environment.
Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options are all available.
🌟 Why People Love Our Malai Kofta
100% Vegetarian and Gluten-Free
Creamy and comforting without being too heavy
Made fresh daily with real vegetables and spices
Customizable spice levels – mild to medium for all palates
Customer-favorite for special occasions, lunch, or dinner
Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian or trying plant-based dishes for the first time, our Malai Kofta promises a luxurious, satisfying meal.
✨ Final Thoughts
Malai Kofta is the kind of dish that stays with you—its richness, aroma, and texture create an experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. At Delhi Indian Cuisine, we’re proud to bring this royal dish to your plate using the freshest ingredients and timeless recipes.
Whether you're planning a family dinner, a celebration, or simply treating yourself to something special, Malai Kofta is always a great choice. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and filled with love—it’s Indian cuisine at its finest.
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