Make This Delicious Malai Kofta at Home to Celebrate the New Year

New Year is a special occasion filled with joy, celebrations, and delicious food. If you are planning to prepare something rich and festive for your family and friends, Malai Kofta is a perfect choice. This classic Indian dish, made with soft fried koftas soaked in a creamy and flavorful gravy, is often served on special occasions and festivals. With its royal taste and attractive presentation, Malai Kofta can easily make your New Year 2026 celebration more memorable. Here’s an easy step-by-step recipe to prepare Malai Kofta at home :-

1 cup grated paneer


½ cup boiled and mashed potatoes


¼ cup finely chopped cashews and almonds

¼ cup butter

¼ cup milk

½ tsp cardamom powder

¼ tsp salt

¼ tsp red chili powder

¼ tsp cumin powder

¼ cup all-purpose flour (for binding)

1 cup tomato puree

½ cup finely chopped onions

¼ cup fresh cream (malai)

½ tsp ginger-garlic paste

½ tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp coriander powder

½ tsp garam masala

¼ tsp red chili powder

2 tbsp ghee

Salt to taste

• In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes and grated paneer.
• Add chopped dry fruits, cardamom powder, salt, red chili powder, and cumin powder. Mix well.
• Shape the mixture into small round balls and lightly coat them with all-purpose flour.
• Heat ghee in a pan and deep-fry the koftas until golden brown and crisp.
• Remove and keep them aside.

• Heat ghee in a pan and sauté chopped onions until light golden.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a few seconds.
• Add tomato puree, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook until oil separates.
• Add fresh cream and mix well to get a smooth, rich gravy.
• Adjust consistency with water if needed.
• Add garam masala and salt, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

• Add the fried koftas to the hot gravy just before serving.
• Let them simmer for a few minutes so they absorb the flavors.
• Avoid overcooking, as koftas may break.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

• Serve Malai Kofta hot with naan, roti, jeera rice, or pulao.
• It also works beautifully as a special dish for lunch or dinner parties.

Celebrate New Year 2026 with the rich and royal taste of homemade Malai Kofta. This creamy and flavorful dish is not only delicious but also perfect for festive gatherings. Prepare it for your loved ones and welcome the New Year with warmth, happiness, and unforgettable flavors.

1. Can Malai Kofta be prepared in advance?
   
   Yes, you can prepare the koftas and gravy separately in advance. Add the koftas to the gravy just before serving to keep them soft and intact.
2. . Can Malai Kofta be made without frying?
   
   Yes, koftas can be shallow-fried or air-fried for a healthier version, though deep-frying gives the best texture and taste.
3. What can be served with Malai Kofta?
   
   Malai Kofta tastes best with naan, roti, jeera rice, or vegetable pulao.