My simple paneer and potato kofta are golden on the outside and a brilliant white colour on the inside. Each bite is soft, a little spongy and slick with a smooth and creamy tomato sauce. In my home, Malai Kofta is an essential curry for special occasions.

This Indian vegetarian curry of paneer (cheese) and potato kofta is a real celebration of rich flavours and warming spices.

What is Malai Kofta?

Malai Kofta is a delicious North Indian vegetarian curry, popular in restaurants and for celebrations like weddings and parties. It’s rich, creamy and utterly delicious with naan, paratha or rice.

Recipes for Malai Kofta vary from cook to cook. “Malai” refers to the liberal use of cream in the dish, while “Kofta” allude the balls of deep-fried paneer (a vegetarian take on meat kofta, so to speak). Many recipes also include potatoes and/or other vegetables in the kofta mixture. A filling of chopped nuts and sultanas is commonplace, too.

Where does Malai Kofta come from?

It’s said that Malai Kofta has roots in Mughlai cuisine; a style of cooking that goes back to the Mughal Empire and its’ royal kitchens. Originally from Central Asia, Turkey, Persia and beyond, Mughlai cuisine introduced dishes like Biryani, Nihari, Korma, Keema and Pasanda to the Indian subcontinent. You will now find hundreds of delicious variations of these and more dishes across India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

They are often rich, luxurious and meat heavy. Ingredients like nuts, saffron, rosewater and dry fruits are found in both sweet and savoury dishes of the Mughlai kitchens.

Notable vegetarian Mughlai-influenced dishes include Malai Kofta, Shahi Paneer, Vegetable Korma, as well as desserts like Shahi Tukda, Falooda and Sheer Khurma.

There are two popular styles of Malai Kofta. Let’s explore them a little.

Mughlai Malai Kofta (Shahi Malai Kofta) – White in colour

This royal preparation of Malai Kofta is heavily inspired by the customs, techniques and ingredients of Mughlai kitchens. The white-coloured gravy is an ode to the royal emperors’ tastes for all things expensive (namely nuts, but also spices like cardamom, saffron and peppercorns).

Make this white gravy by first blanching almonds and/or cashews in hot water, then grinding to create a smooth and creamy paste. Fry off some spices and add the paste, but don’t let it brown. Copious amounts of cream and a pinch of sugar to finish, of course.

Punjabi Malai Kofta (North Indian-style Malai Kofta) – Orange or red in colour

Punjabi Malai Kofta is the version of the dish we most commonly find in restaurants. It’s an adaptation of the Mughlai dish that puts tomatoes to work, hence the orange or red gravy. Tomatoes and chillies were not introduced to India until the 15th and 16th centuries so you could say this is a more ‘modern take’ on Malai Kofta.

Over the years, recipes have changed and adapted with tastes and the movement of people. Each Malai Kofta recipe you’ll find online, in books or by word of mouth will be as unique as it is delicious.

Is this a Nut-free Malai Kofta recipe?

Yes, my recipe for Melt-Away Malai Kofta is incidentally, completely nut free. Most recipes for Malai Kofta will contain an assortment of nuts and raisins in the kofta filling and either cashews or almonds to thicken the gravy (sauce).

Now, I’ve never been a fan of crunchy nuts in my creamy kofta, although it is is typical of restaurant-style Malai Kofta.

A while back, I asked my Instagram community to vote on whether they like nuts and raisins in their Malai Kofta. An overwhelming 83% of 6,000 respondents said no. To make this suitable for those with nut allergies and intolerances, I decided to cut all the nuts out, even in the sauce. So here it is: A creamy, nut-free Malai Kofta recipe that tastes like a restaurant version!

What is Malai in Indian food?

In Indian cookery, the term ‘Malai’ refers to the cream extracted from heating whole milk (sourced from cattle: Either cow or buffalo). It’s used for making a range of dishes, both sweet and savoury. Some dishes include: Malai Kofta, Malai Peda, Rasmalai and Kulfi.

How to serve Malai Kofta

Serve Melt-Away Malai Kofta with your choice of Indian accompaniments, such as Naan, Paratha or Rice. I simply adore the combination of Malai Kofta and Garlic Naan.

Some recipes call for placement of the Kofta to be a last-minute affair, directly on top of the hot gravy. My recipe requires a gentle simmer to plump up the Kofta before serving. This gives them their mouth watering melt-away texture.

Why is it called Melt-Away Malai Kofta?

I’ve been making versions of this dish for years. Take a look at this delicious Paneer Kofta recipe from my archives. The first time I made this iteration of Malai Kofta, my husband took a portion out for himself at dinner time. I looked over and saw there were five koftas in his plate.

Important tips for making this recipe

Paneer

• Homemade paneer works best in this recipe. Refer to this recipe for Homemade Paneer. Make sure the paneer is very well pressed, overnight or for as long as possible. Chill in the fridge until ready to use. The paneer should be dry and crumbly. If it is not properly pressed, the kofta may break in the oil while frying.

Potatoes

• I use a floury variety of potato in my recipe. Maris Piper or King Edward if you’re in the UK. Any mealy potato you’d use for baked potatoes is ideal. Cook the potato however you like. I like to microwave mine in the skin until soft because it’s super quick and easy. It also draws water out of the potato rather than putting water in, like boiling does.

• Once the potato is cooked grate it on the fine side of a cheese grater. It’s best to allow it to cool a bit first!

Kneading kofta mixture

• Spend a bit of time kneading the kofta mixture. Use the heel of your palm to press the mixture into the worktop and away from you. We are creating a smooth-textured dough without a crumbly texture. This process is similar to kneading chhena (paneer) for sweets like Rasmalai and Rasgulla. It produces the perfect smooth and creamy finish.

• I spent about 5 minutes per portion, so 15 minutes kneading in total. It’s a great work out! I don’t recommend using a blender for this as it can overwork the mixture and ruin the texture of the kofta.

Frying kofta

• Heat the oil to 125°C/260°F on a cooking thermometer. It should be low enough to seal the kofta all around without browning too quickly. If you don’t have a cooking thermometer, drop one of the kofta into the oil – it should bubble around the outside very slowly.
  
• The kofta need to be fried very slowly until they turn golden. Each batch will take around 10 minutes. Keep them moving in the oil all the time for even browning. If the heat is too high the outside will brown too quickly and they will deflate as soon as they come out of the oil.
  
• I do not recommend baking or air frying the kofta.

Sauce/gravy

• Since we use tomato purée in the recipe, there is no need to strain the gravy after we blend it. I love the punchy tang of tomato purée in this recipe. Fresh tomatoes don’t even come close.
  
• Skimmed milk powder and fried onions will thicken the sauce beautifully in the absence of nuts. You can replace it with 8-10 cashews, soaked in boiling hot water for 30 minutes.
  
• Be sure to remove large whole spices like star anise and cinnamon from the onion masala before you blend it. They can ruin the colour!
  
• For a bright colour, slowly sizzle Kashmiri chilli powder in warm ghee or oil before adding the gravy mixture. It has a mild flavour and great colour. If you can find this, use half the amount of regular chilli powder and supplement with a teaspoon of paprika (not smoked paprika).

Can I make vegan Malai Kofta using this recipe?

I have not tried veganising this Malai Kofta recipe. I’d imagine quite a few significant changes would need to take place in order to make a vegan Malai Kofta with this recipe. I recommend checking out this Vegan Malai Kofta recipe by Nisha at Rainbow Plant Life.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel!

Is this recipe for Malai Kofta gluten free?

The kofta contain plain wheat flour. Feel free to swap this for rice flour or your favourite gluten-free baking flour. Use a gluten-free baking powder.

How to make Homemade Paneer

My recipe below is best made with Homemade Paneer. Although, if you don’t have time and want to use shop-bought, I’ll totally forgive you. Please do your best to find the softest paneer possible. Malai Paneer is perfect.

Melt-Away Malai Kofta recipe

Print

Melt-Away Malai Kofta

I call this creamy paneer kofta curry Melt-Away Malai Kofta simply because they melt away as soon as you put them in your mouth. Malai Kofta are the ultimate North Indian vegetarian curry recipe to dazzle friends and family. A celebration of rich flavours and warming spices.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Keyword celebration, curry, dinner party, kofta, north indian, paneer, party food

Prep Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 2 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Author Sanjana

Equipment

• Blender
• Large pan for cooking the sauce
• Kadai, work or large pan for deep frying
• Slotted spoon for deep frying

Ingredients

For the kofta:

• 225 g paneer, very well pressed homemade is best (recipe linked above)
• 100 g potato (any floury variety such as Maris Piper, King Edward or Yukon Gold) cooked, cooled, peeled and grated on the fine side of a grater
• 1 1/2 tbsp plain flour
• 1/3 tsp salt
• Baking powder same amount as two grains of rice
• Oil for deep frying any cooking oil

For the kofta curry:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 whole star anise
• 2 cm stick cinnamon or cassia bark
• 4 whole green cardamom pods
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 small piece black stone flower optional
• 2 onions finely diced (about 250g)
• 2 tbsp double concentrate tomato purée
• 2 large cloves garlic chopped
• 2 cm piece ginger grated
• 2 tbsp skimmed milk powder
• 250 ml water

To finish the Malai Kofta:

• 1 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
• Small pinch of saffron
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 100 ml whipping cream (cooking cream)
• 1/4 tsp kasoori methi
• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

Instructions

To make the kofta (see video for visual tutorial):

• Crumble your well-pressed homemade paneer onto a large plate or on a clean surface. it should feel dry and crumbly. If using shop bought paneer, you will need to grate it on the fine side of a grater.
• Add the finely-grated cooked potato, salt and baking powder. Work everything together using your hands and then sprinkle over the flour. Bring the mixture together to form a very rough mixture. It should bind to a sticky, but not wet dough. Divide it into three portions.
• Taking one portion of mixture at a time, begin to knead the dough on a worktop or clean surface. Use the heel of your palm to press the mixture into the worktop and away from you. We are creating a smooth-textured dough without a crumbles This process is similar to kneading chhena (paneer) for sweets like Rasmalai and Rasgulla. It produces the perfect finish.
• Spend a bit of time kneading the kofta mixture. I spent about 5 minutes per portion, so 15 minutes kneading in total. It's a great work out! I don't recommend using a blender for this as it can overwork the mixture and ruin the texture of the kofta.
• Bring the kofta mixture back together and begin to portion it out into approximately 13-15g portions. Don't make them any bigger than this as they will expand slightly in the oil. Roll each one with a little pressure between your palms. They should be perfectly smooth and without any cracks. You should have between 24-26 kofta.
• Heat enough oil to deep fry the kofta in a kadai or wok. Work in batches of 2-3 so the oil is not overcrowded. Heat the oil to 125°C/260°F on a cooking thermometer. It should be low enough to seal the kofta all around without browning too quickly. If you don't have a cooking thermometer, drop one of the kofta into the oil – it should bubble around the outside very slowly.
• Fry the kofta at this temperature. At no point should the oil temperature exceed 130°C/265°F. Agitate the oil around them, rather than directly moving the kofta at first. This will ensure they don't get knocked out of shape. The kofta need to be fried very slowly until they turn golden. Each batch will take around 10 minutes. Keep them moving in the oil all the time for even browning. If the heat is too high the outside will brown too quickly and they will deflate once they come out of the oil.
• Line a plate with kitchen towel. Lift out your fried kofta and drain on the plate. Repeat this process for your remaining batches of kofta. Note: It's okay if the kofta deflate very slightly on the surface. They will plump up again in the kofta curry later.

For the kofta curry:

• Heat the oil in a large pan. Add star anise, cinnamon or cassia bark, cardamom, cloves, black stone flower if using (I recommend it) and onions. Sauté over a medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, until the onions turn soft and translucent but do not brown. Tip: Add the salt at this stage to help the onions cook quickly.
• Next, add the tomato purée and cook out for a further minute. Finally, add the ginger and garlic and cook for two minutes longer over a low heat. Allow this mixture to cool and then remove the whole star anise and cinnamon or cassia. Leave the other whole spices in.
• Once cool, transfer the mixture to a blender. Add the milk powder and water. Blend on the highest speed until very smooth. The sauce should be thick and very creamy.

To finish the Malai Kofta:

• Heat ghee or oil in a large pan set over a low heat. Add the Kashmiri chilli powder and allow it to sizzle for a few seconds before adding the blended kofta sauce. Stir well. Add saffron, sugar and cream (reserve a tablespoon for garnishing). Stir well and bring to a very gentle simmer.
• Add the fried kofta and mix gently to ensure they're covered. Place a lid on the pan and allow to heat through over a low heat for 4-5 minutes.
• Remove the lid and garnish with a swirl of cream, kasoori methi (rub between your palms first) and fresh coriander. Serve immediately with naan, paratha or rice.

Video

Notes

How to store leftover Malai Kofta

Pack any leftovers into an air-tight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan, adding water if sauce is too thick. Try not to stir too much to avoid breaking. Do not freeze.

To make Malai Kofta ahead of time

This can be made up to 3 days in advance. Keep the kofta and sauce separate until you’re ready to serve. At the last minute, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer (add water if necessary as it will thicken over time), add the kofta and simmer gently for 4-5 minutes as directed in the recipe above.

Pin this recipe for later!

If you like this, you’ll love my recipe for Restaurant-Style Shahi Paneer

More recipes you might like

The Best Vegetable Samosas

Learn how to make amazing Indian vegetarian samosas stuffed with the classic combination of potatoes and peas. Includes a detailed step-by-step recipe for folding samosas with homemade pastry.

Check out this recipe

Quick Buttermilk Naan

Make lip-licking naans that are thin, tender and chewy, with perfectly-puffy blisters, just like in Indian restaurants. The flavour of these buttermilk naans is slightly tangy and so delicious with a slick of salty butter. Use them to scoop up your favourite curries, or dunk them in daal for a a comforting meal — you won’t believe they aren’t from a restaurant!

Check out this recipe

Foolproof Indian Boiled Rice

Learn how to achieve the longest, most separate grains of rice with this easy recipe for boiled Basmati rice. Serve alongside your favourite curries and daals.

Check out this recipe

Love Sanjana

The post Melt-Away Malai Kofta appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

I have a few tricks up my sleeve, including how to prepare potatoes that’ll melt in your mouth, as well as how to clean fresh methi (fenugreek leaves).

My first time cooking with methi

… was a disaster! Funnily enough, it was also a complete accident because I didn’t set out to make methi anything that day.

My mother was in India with my masi (her sister) so I was home with my brother, dad and Bapu (dad’s bother) who was visiting.

With dad and Bapu in our family newsagents all day, my 11-year old self thought it would be nice to prepare dinner for when they got home. My plan was to make Bhaji and Rotli, a simple curry of spinach leaves and chapatis to go with it.

First problem: We didn’t have any fresh spinach. Never mind, I thought. I’d seen my mum make Bhaji with both frozen and tinned spinach before and it was always great. To the freezer I marched.

I pulled a bag of the solid leafy greens from the freezer and got to work. I chopped the garlic, did a tadka of cumin seeds, asafoetida and fresh chillies. It was going famously. I felt like a young Tarla Dalal. Finally, a dash of salt and a little taste test…

The spoonful of Bhaji went into my mouth and then immediately came back out. Wretched. It was as bitter as Cobra Kai’s sensei Kreese in The Karate Kid.

So what went wrong?

I dug the packet of frozen spinach out of the freezer and re-read the label. ‘METHI BHAJI‘. My bubblegum brain had made a solo fenugreek leaf curry!

If this happened to me today, I’d simply chuck in a load of cooked potatoes but when I was first starting out, my instinct was to cut my losses and make something else.

My dad, Bapu and brother came home and sat down to the plan B Kadhi and rotli I had made last minute (Mrs Doubtfire style). They ate the methi bhaji, too. Dad and Bapu said it was great, my brother told me I was “a plonker”.

Did they eat it out of courtesy? Probably. Did that still mean everything to my novice cook self? Absolutely.

Where to buy fresh methi (fenugreek) in the UK

I recommend visiting your local fruit and vegetable market. South Asian food shops and greengrocers will certainly have bunches of fresh methi.

Many large supermarkets now stock fresh methi in their ethnic produce sections.

How to clean fresh methi

How to freeze fresh methi

Follow all the steps in the how-to above. Ensure the methi leaves are completely dry before packing into a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for 6-8 months.

Is methi the same as fenugreek?

Yes. Fenugreek is the English name for Methi (its’ name in Hindi, amongst other South Asian languages).

Can I use dried (kasoori methi) in place of fresh methi?

No. I don’t recommend replacing the fresh methi in this recipe with dried. The flavours differ a great deal. Dried methi is extremely potent and fresh has a mild, grassier flavour, so they cannot be used interchangeably.

Other recipes you may like:

• Softest-Ever Roti (Chapati/Rotli)
• Methi Thepla
• Aubergine Ravaiya
• Bateta nu Shaak
• Garlic Chutney

My star ingredient: fresh turmeric

My recipe includes juliennes of fresh turmeric for both a golden colour and a bright, citrusy flavour. They balance the earthy, caramel-bitterness of the fenugreek, while the potatoes make it a meal.

3 tips for preparing fresh turmeric

1. Wear gloves! It’s wise to glove up before you begin handling fresh turmeric. The colour will stain your hands and nails for days.
   
2. Protect your work station. As well as covering your hands, it’s a good idea to lay down newspaper or an old tea towel before you start. This will save you having to bleach them back to their normal colour.
   
3. Use a teaspoon to scrape off the skin. Just like preparing fresh ginger, the most effective and least wasteful way to peel fresh turmeric is with a teaspoon.

How to prepare potatoes for 20-Minute Aloo Methi

My cooking medium of choice may be an unconventional one, but it s a fast and easy method: Microwave!

I simply wash my potatoes, prick the skins with a fork and them microwave for 8 minutes or so, until they’re soft inside. The cooking time will vary depending on your microwave so keep an eye on them.

Once they’ve cooled, I peel them (keep the skins on if you prefer) with my fingers. They’re really easy to peel because the potatoes shrink slightly and the skin becomes loose.

What type of potatoes should I use for 20-Minute Aloo Methi?

Any variety of potato will work in this recipe, although floury potatoes for baking such as Maris Piper or King Edward produce the best results.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel

20-Minute Aloo Methi recipe

Print

20-Minute Aloo Methi

Have my vegetarian 20-Minute Aloo Methi curry on the table faster than it takes to order a takeaway! This Indian potato and fenugreek leaf curry, also know as Aloo Methi ki Sabji is a weeknight staple in my home alongside roti.

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Indian

Keyword fenugreek leaves, methi, potatoes, turmeric

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Author Sanjana

Ingredients

• 750 g potatoes about 4 large
• 100 g fresh methi leaves only, chopped
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida
• 4 cm piece fresh turmeric julienned
• 2 cloves garlic crushed
• 2-3 chillies slit in half lengthways
• 1/2 tsp chilli powder optional
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large fresh tomato roughly diced
• 1/2 tsp garam masala optional

Instructions

• Wash the potatoes and price the skins all over using a fork. Place on a microwave-safe plate and cook in the microwave for 10 minutes or until soft. Allow to cool. Peel and cut into 2cm/1-inch pieces.
• Heat the oil or ghee in a large pan. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. Next, add the cumin seeds and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds and then add the slit chillies, fresh turmeric juliennes and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
• Add chilli powder, fresh methi and salt. Stir to combine. Cook over a medium heat, stirring all the time for 4-5 minutes. Add the potatoes and stir well to coat the potatoes in the spices and methi. Cook for a further 2-3 minutes before adding the tomatoes. Add optional garam masala at this stage. I often prefer it without! Stir briefly and then remove from the heat.
• Serve hot with roti or paratha.

Video

Notes

• Fresh turmeric gives this curry wonderful flavour and colour. If you are unable to use fresh turmeric, add 1/2 tsp dried ground turmeric along with the chilli powder.
• Do not replace fresh methi (fenugreek leaves) with dried/kasoori methi in this recipe.
• Any variety of potato will work in this recipe, although floury potatoes for baking such as Maris Piper or King Edward produce the best results.

Pin this recipe for later! 20-Minute Aloo Methi

If you like this, you’ll love my recipe for Bateta nu Shaak

Love Sanjana

The post 20-Minute Aloo Methi appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

Combine aromatic spices with a creamy cashew and tomato base, gently brown some butter in a pan and create the Makhani-style sauce of your dreams. This is the only way I’ll make Paneer Makhani from now on.

What is Brown Butter?

A wise friend once told me I must strive to be the best version of myself. I think butter has the same friend because along comes brown butter to blow our minds. It’s like regular butter but with a breathtaking glow-up.

Brown butter is richer and even more buttery tasting than its former self. A simple melt, stir and gentle simmer in a pan is all that lies between you and the best Paneer Makhani of your life.

The Maillard reaction

The process of cooking the butter to the point of golden toastiness causes a series of chemical reactions between amino acids and sugars from the lactose in butter. This is an example of a Maillard reaction.

Other examples of foods that under go this same miraculous transformation include toast, viennoiserie like croissants and pain au chocolat, toasted marshmallows, golden cookies, scones, roasted white chocolate and fried dumplings.

It’s a building block of flavour responsible for some of the most delicious foods we know.

How to make brown butter

1. Melt

Melt cubes of butter in a pan. Initially, the butter will be a pale, creamy colour.

2. Bubble & evaporate

Next, the water will begin to cook off, causing the liquid to spit and splutter as the fats and remaining water continue to interact. Large bubbles are visible on the surface. Now the butter will look yellow and erm… buttery.

3. Foam & caramelise

Prepare for a lot of foam. With the water now evaporated, the fats can now begin to caramelise. The pillowy sheet of foam is like a heavy raincloud on a sunny day. Underneath, the butter changing from yellow to amber.

Keep the butter moving the whole time to ensure it doesn’t brown too quickly and deeply. Remember, this is brown butter, not burnt butter.

4. Browning

Once the foaming begins to subside, you’ll notice a grainy sediment at the base of the pan. These are made up of caramelised milk solids, similar to what we see in ghee making. They are pure umami flavour: Salty, caramelised and slightly bitter.

Now keep an eye on your butter as it will reach brown butter nirvana in a matter of seconds. Let it go too far and you’ll have burnt butter. A deep, golden-syrup colour is ideal for this dish.

How to use brown butter to make Paneer Makhani

Instead of cooking our aromatics (ginger, garlic, etc) in regular butter or oil, we will use the umami-rich brown butter. Add a handful of aromatic spices, sweet, boiled cashews and tangy tomatoes.

The process of high-speed blending will cause the brown butter to emulsify into the sauce for a luxurious, silky finish.

I reserve a small amount of brown butter for drizzling on top. The salty hit of butter is out of this world.

Can’t I just use ghee?

You can use ghee but it won’t taste the same. Allow me to clarify (heh). The key difference between ghee and brown butter is that the latter incorporates the milk solids. I call them flavour sand! Brown butter is also cooked for longer, so offers greater nutty aromas.

What spices do we need for Brown Butter Paneer Makhani?

Kashmiri red chilli, green cardamom, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric and garam masala. That’s it.

Grab my Homemade Garam Masala recipe

Homemade Garam Masala

Learn how to make a cracker of a Garam Masala blend using whole roasted spices. Here's a list of spices you need to jazz up any North Indian dish, from curry and pulao, to samosas and parathas.

Check out this recipe

What kind of paneer should I use for Brown Butter Paneer Makhani?

The smooth and nutty flavours of this brown butter sauce are a delicious carrier for homemade paneer. The soft cubes simply melt in your mouth.

How to make Homemade Paneer

The Best Homemade Paneer (Softest-Ever Cubes!)

Soft and squidgy homemade paneer for curries, paratha fillings, chilli paneer, samosas and more. This simple recipe includes tips for making fresh paneer that tastes like it just came from the dairywala.

Check out this recipe

Having said this, if time isn’t something you have, you can certainly use shop-bought paneer. I recommend you cut the paneer and soak it in boiling water for 10 minutes before draining, patting dry and pan frying.

You can also add the paneer straight into the sauce without pan frying.

I like to create a golden crust on my homemade paneer cubes for texture and colour.

Brown Butter Paneer Makhani recipe

Print

Brown Butter Paneer Makhani

I thought I knew love, but then I met Brown Butter Paneer Makhani. Combine aromatic spices with brown butter and a creamy cashew-tomato curry.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Keyword cheese, curry, north indian, paneer, vegetarian

Prep Time 25 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Author Sanjana

Ingredients

• 450 g paneer cubed
• 15 whole cashews
• 2-4 whole dried Kashmiri red chillies (I used 4 very mild ones)
• 4 green cardamom pods cracked
• 1/2 tbsp whole coriander seeds
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin seeds
• 1 small red onion cut into rough chunks
• 500 g tomato passata (sieved tomatoes)
• 500 ml water
• 150 g unsalted butter
• 1/2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp crushed garlic about 3 cloves
• 1 tbsp tomato purée (concentrated tomato paste)
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
• 1 1/2 tbsp garam masala (recipe linked above)
• 100 ml whipping cream
• 1/2 tsp ground kasoori methi
• 2 tbsp agave or brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground green cardamom seeds
• 1 1/2 tsp salt

To garnish:

• 1 tbsp whipping cream
• 2 tbsp reserved brown butter
• 1/4 tsp kasoori methi
• 1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves

Instructions

To prepare the paneer:

• Heat 1-2 tbsp oil in a non-stick frying pan and pan-fry the paneer until lightly golden brown on all sides. Place on a plate lined with kitchen towel and set aside while you get on with the sauce.

For the brown butter makhani sauce:

• Place a heavy-based pan over a medium-low heat. Do not add oil. Dry-roast cashew nuts, dried Kashmiri chillies, the four whole cardamom pods, whole coriander seeds, cumin seeds and roughly-chopped onion. About 2-3 minutes.
• Add the tomato passata and 200ml water. Stir well and cover with a lid. Simmer over a medium-low heat for 10 minutes. Switch the heat off and remove the lid. Allow the mixture to cool.
• To make the brown butter, melt butter in a heavy-based pan. Keep the heat low to ensure the butter browns slowly and evenly, without burning. Cook, stirring constantly.
• The butter will go from being yellow, to having large bubbles, then foamy, and finally, a deeply golden colour, rather like golden syrup. Some foam will subside and there will be toasted milk solids at the bottom of the pan. No need to skim off any foam or sediment, this is brown butter, not ghee. The brown butter will smell incredibly buttery and nutty. This is a core building block of flavour in this curry. The process should take around 7 minutes from start to finish.
• Remove two tablespoons full of the brown butter from the pan and set aside. We will drizzle this on top of the finished curry.
• With the remaining brown butter still over a very low heat, add the crushed garlic, grated ginger, tomato purée, turmeric and Kashmiri chilli powder. Sauté for one minute and then switch the heat off.
• Stir in the garam masala and prepared tomato, nut and whole spice mixture and 200ml cold water to cool it down quickly for blending.
• Pile the mixture into a high-powered blender and grind until very smooth. Feel free to pass the mixture through a sieve afterwards for an extra-smooth sauce. Since we're using passata, I don't find this is necessary.
• Return the sauce to a pan and rinse the blender jar out with 100ml water to catch every last bit of sauce. Add this to the pan too. Keep the sauce over a low heat.
• Season with salt, agave or brown sugar to sweeten and mellow out the chilli heat, and ground cardamom seeds. Stir well. Finish with a swirl of cream and kasoori methi rubbed between your palms. Add the paneer, reserved brown butter and fresh coriander leaves if you like. Heat through and serve immediately with roti, naan or rice. I love this dish with tandoori roti.

Video

Notes

• Pan frying the paneer is optional. I like using homemade paneer for this dish which benefits from a slight crust to keep the pieces whole.
• If using shop-bought paneer, first cube it and soak the pieces in boiling water for 10 minutes. Drain, pat dry and use as they are or pan fry for the softest paneer curry.

Pin this recipe for later!

If you like this, you’ll love my recipe for Buttermilk Naan

More delicious recipes

Restaurant-Style Shahi Paneer

Delicious, rich & creamy Shahi Paneer is a vegetarian food hero in North Indian cuisine. Scoop this curry up with flaky parathas or serve with basmati rice.

Check out this recipe

Homemade Masala Paneer

The Homemade Masala Paneer. Soft and squidgy homemade masala paneer for curries, paratha fillings, chilli paneer, samosas and more. This simple recipe includes tips for making fresh masala paneer that tastes like it just came from the dairywala.

Check out this recipe

Garam Masala Potato Gratin

This simple double potato concoction with cream and freshly-ground spices is a dish I crave often.

Check out this recipe

Love Sanjana

The post Brown Butter Paneer Makhani appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

The delicate beans pair beautifully with bouncy dumplings (“Dhokli”) made from chickpea flour, turmeric and ajwain (carom seeds). Each little Dhokli has an indentation in the middle to catch the sauce, just as Orecchiette (the ear-shaped pasta) does.

Video: How to make Guvar Dhokli nu Shaak

What is Guvar in English?

Cluster beans. These long, flat beans are also called “guar”, “gavar” and “gawar” depending on regional language and dialect.

It’s a legume from which which “guar gum”, a commercial thickener (similar in application to xanthan gum) is extracted. You will find guar gum in anything from ice cream and baked goods, to salad dressings and soups. These beans are big business.

India produces around 80% of the world’s guvar and it’s especially popular in northern and western parts of the country.

How do you clean cluster beans?

It’s extremely simple! Once I bring a bumper crop of Guvar home I follow these steps:

1. Wash the cluster beans in plenty of cold water.
2. Dry them thoroughly in a clean tea towel.
3. Top and tail the beans.
4. Cut very long beans in half.

It’s important to note that young beans make preparation very simple as they don’t contain many fibrous strands.

What if you have mature beans?

If your cluster beans are more mature (large and wide), you can boil them until tender and then peel off the fibrous strands that run down the long edge of the beans.

In this recipe, I choose young beans and cook them from their raw state. If your beans are large and mature, you will need to add the pre-boiled and cooled Guvar towards the end of the cooking time.

How to cook Guvar

Cluster beans require a longer cooking time in comparison to other green beans. They can be slightly tough so be sure to cook them for an ample amount of time.

Guvar and Digestion

Important! Guvar can sometimes be difficult to digest so Ayurvedic teachings almost always advocate the addition of ajwain (carom seeds) and hing (asafoetida) alongside.

Don’t forget these two Guvar partners. They’re like the Spongebob, Patrick, and Squidward of Gujarati curry!

What is Dhokli?

Lightly-spiced wheat and sometimes gram flour dumplings. To put it simply, they’re thicker than most pasta shapes but not as robust as gnocchi.

Dhokli can be rolled in many shapes. From long strips, squares and diamonds, to discs, buttons and logs.

How you roll your Dhokli is down to personal preference and the type of dish you happen to be cooking at the time.

How to serve Guvar Dhokli nu Shaak

My preference is to eat this Gujarati curry with Rotli (chapati) and salad or simply with plain rice. I often eat Guvar Dhokli nu Shaak with a dollop of yoghurt and nothing more. Since the carbs are already there in the form of Dhokli, you really can just eat this one-pot wonder with a spoon.

The thickness of this curry depends on personal preference. for example, if you’re eating it with rice, ensure it has a little more sauce. If you serve it with Rotli, you can get away with evaporating some of the water off at the end.

How to make Gujarati Guvar Dhokli nu Shaak

Print

Guvar Dhokli nu Shaak

Guvar Dhokli is a cluster bean and dumpling curry enjoyed in most Gujarati homes. This quick and easy version can be made in the Instant Pot for a speedy weeknight dinner alongside rotli and kachumber.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Keyword beans, curry, dumplings, gujarati, guvar, vegan

Prep Time 45 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Author Sanjana

Ingredients

• 100 g chickpea flour (gram flour/besan)
• 50 g plain flour (all-purpose flour/maida)
• 15 g coarse semolina
• 1/2 tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
• 1 tsp crushed garlic
• 1/2 tsp chilli powder
• 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp fine salt
• 1/8 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp oil (any cooking oil)
• 60 ml warm water

For the shaak:

• 400 g guvar (cluster beans)
• 2 tbsp oil (any cooking oil)
• 1/2 tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
• 1 1/2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp crushed garlic
• 1 tsp chilli powder
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp asafoetida
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 500 ml water
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves to serve

Instructions

To make the Dhokli (Dumplings):

• In a large bowl, mix together all the dry ingredients (including garlic). Make a well in the centre and add 1 tbsp oil. Pour in the water and mix to form a shaggy dough. Use your hands to knead the dough for 5-6 minutes. It should be slightly stiff. Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil and knead it in to the dough. Cover and allow the dough to rest for 20 minutes.
• Once rested, divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover the portion you're not going to work on again so it doesn't dry out.
• Roll the dough into a long sausage shape. It should be around 2cm/0.7-inches in diameter.
• Cut the ends of the dough off and set aside. Now cut the trimmed log of dough into rounds, about 1/2cm thick. Roll the dough portions into rounds between your palms and use your thumb to make an indentation in the centre of the dough. They should look like little buttons. Set the aside and repeat this process until all the dough has been used up.

For the curry:

• Top and tail the guvar, cutting any very large beans in half.
• Put the Instant Pot on sauté/browning mode and place the in the pot. Add ajwain and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds and then quickly add the tomato purée. Cook the paste out for 1 minute. Next, add the chilli powder, turmeric, asafoetida, salt and sugar. Stir well to combine.
• Add water and bring to the boil.
• Throw in the trimmed guvar and stir to coat. It might seem watery but remember the dhokli will need water to cook properly.
• Once the guvar has been stirred, add the dhokli and give them a very gently fold. Don't stir too much or they will break.
• Place the lid on the pot and cook on high pressure for 17 minutes exactly.
• Carefully release the steam after the cooking time is up. Open the lid and stir well. The dhokli should be cooked through and the guvar tender. Place back on sauté mode to evaporate some excess water but not too much as the dhokli will continue to absorb the water as it sits. If you remove too much, the curry will become dry.
• Garnish with fresh coriander and serve.

Video

Notes

Alternative cooking methods

Cooking instructions for other conventional pressure cookers remain the same.

To cook this curry in a regular pot/pan, follow the same instructions as above but instead of pressure cooking, the curry will need to be simmered over a low heat for 35-40 minutes. Stir often to avoid sticking. Top up with water if necessary.

Freezing

This Guvar Dhokli is suitable for home freezing. Pack the cooled curry into an airtight container and freeze for 3 months.

I like to double the Dhokli recipe and freeze the raw dhoklis on a tray. Once solid, they can be packed into a container or freezer-safe bag to add to curries from frozen.

 

Pin it for later! Guvar Dhokli nu Shaak

If you love this, you might also enjoy my Gujarati Daal Dhokli recipe

Other recipes you may like

Gujarati Ravaiya (Stuffed Aubergine Curry)

Ask any Gujarati and they’ll rave about their mum or gran’s Ravaiya (stuffed aubergine curry). It’s in our nature. There is no love greater than the love you feel when you eat these hand-stuffed baby aubergines.

Check out this recipe

Gujarati-Style Okra & Potatoes

Gujarati-Style Okra & Potatoes (Bhinda Bateta nu Shaak) is an everyday comfort food in many Gujarati homes, including mine. It’s usually scooped up with soft, hot rotlis (chapattis), which is our daily bread. This curry is delicately flavoured with cumin seeds, turmeric, garlic and lemon juice for a fresh vegan dish that eats more like a stir fry than the heavy restaurant curries one might be used to.

Check out this recipe

Soft Gujarati Thepla

Thepla are a staple any-time-of-the-day flatbread in Indian homes. Fresh fenugreek leaves give them their signature bitter caramel flavour.

Check out this recipe

Gujarati Khandvi (Patuli/Paturi)

Tightly rolled, bite-sized snacks made using chickpea flour and yoghurt. They're hot, sweet, sour, salty and so delicious. Khandvi, also known as Patuli is a popular snack from Gujarat, western India. Serve with chai for a tasty breakfast or snack.

Check out this recipe

Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak

A tried and true recipe for Koru Bateta nu Shaak (Gujarati-style dry potato curry). This is my mother's exact recipe and the only way we make it at home. She has a few fabulous tips for achieving intense flavours and the perfect dry bhaji-style texture every time. This shaak pairs perfectly with Masala Poori and dahi (plain yoghurt).

Check out this recipe

Gujarati Dudhi Muthiya – How to make Gujarati Steamed Dumplings

Super tender vegetable and rice dumplings, first steamed and then sautéed with crackled mustard seeds, sesame seeds and curry leaves. These Gujarati muthiyas are my family’s favourite way of using up leftover cooked rice and veggies.

Check out this recipe

Love Sanjana

The post Guvar Dhokli nu Shaak appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

If you’re on the hunt for a minimal-effort curry recipe to add to your weeknight meal rotation, you’re in the right place.

What are Tindora?

Ivy Gourd. This member of the gourd family is usually no larger than the average pinky finger. It’s most popular in southern Indian states but is a common vegetable across Indian cookery.

The skin of Tindora is thin and the flavour very subtle. Inside, you’ll find lots of small seeds but far less moisture than most gourds. This means that once you cook the Tindora, they retain their crunch.

While it’s a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine, it’s important to note that Ivy Gourd is used in cuisines from Africa to East Asia and South East Asia.

What are the different names for Tindora?

Tindora is the Gujarati name for Ivy Gourd. They’re also known as Tendli (तेंडली) in Hindi, Dondakaya in Telugu and Kovai in Tamil. Almost every local community in India have their own name for this popular little gourd.

What’s a gourd?

Think courgette (zucchini), squash, pumpkins, cucumbers and melons). Tindora are firm to the touch and have a smooth, shiny surface.

How to choose Tindora in the shop or market

I have the fondest memories of choosing vegetables in the local Indian shop with my mother.

She would explain to me the difference between a fat aubergine and a skinny one, a limp okra and a firm one, and why we always choose the most slender roots of ginger.

To choose the best Tindora, you must look for small gourds, no larger than the average pinky finger. It should be very firm, with a shiny and smooth skin.

Try to choose Tindora with a pale skin. This indicates that they are young and tender. The fatter they are, the more likely they are to contain a large amount of seeds. This means they’re older and may be holding more water. This in turn, can make the Tindora bitter.

Are Tindora the same as Parwal?

Not quite. Tindora have a thin and smooth skin and rounded ends, while Parwal (pointed gourd) have a thicker, rougher skin and as the name suggests, pointed ends. They do however, come from the same family.

Tindora tend to be smaller in comparison to Parwal. The skin of Parwal is often scraped or peeled before cooking to remove some of the toughness. Parwal is a favourite in Punjabi cuisine.

What can I use instead of Tindora?

While Tindora are unique in their texture and shape, a similar result can be achieved using young courgette (zucchini). Cut them into 4cm x 1cm batons and cook in the same way as Tindora in this recipe.

Texturally, the final result won’t be exactly the same but the flavours will be a close match.

What’s the best way to cook Tindora?

With very little water. I find a quick shallow fry is the best way to achieve a deliciously tender, yet crunchy texture when it comes to Tindora. You can drain away excess oil once they’re cooked.

What type of corn should I use for this curry?

I use tinned because I always have a tin of sweetcorn in the cupboard. It’s what makes this curry the perfect weeknight dinner. If you have fresh corn, feel free to cook that and add it in. Indeed, frozen corn also works a treat.

Why do you add chickpea flour to this curry?

Chickpea flour (besan) gives this dish a dry finish. It’s a light dish served without sauce. I also love the toasted, nutty flavour the chickpea flour gives the curry.

Is this 30-Minute Tindora Curry with Corn suitable for vegans?

Yes, this easy curry is both vegetarian and vegan.

Is this curry gluten free?

My 30-Minute Tindora Curry with Corn can be gluten free if you leave out the asafoetida (hing). Why? Because wheat flour is a common additive in commercial brands of asafoetida.

Having said this, asafoetida in its pure form is naturally gluten free. If you happen to come across pure asafoetida, simply crush it in a pestle and mortar or grate using a microplane for an asafoetida that’s suitable for gluten-free cooking.

How to serve this easy weeknight curry

Serve this Tindora Curry with roti, phulka, paratha or rice. It’s lovely as it is for a low-effort midweek meal. Although you could kick things up a notch and serve this dish as part of a larger thali or tiffin.

Just add your favourite daal, raita, pickle and sweet dish to the spread. When I serve this as part of a big meal, I pair it with:

• Easy Palak Paneer
• Homemade Gujarati Rotli
• Daal Kachori
• Creamy Kesar Shrikhand

My essentials for this recipe

Amazon Affiliate links. These are all products I have purchased of my own accord and ones that I use myself. None of the products mentioned have been gifted to me. By using an affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no expense to you. This commission helps to support this blog. Thanks in advance if you choose to make a purchase through these links!

How to make 30-Minute Tindora Curry with Corn

Print

30-Minute Tindora Curry with Corn

Tindora Curry with Corn is a simple, dry-style curry of tindora (ivy gourd) and sweetcorn. It's light, fresh and quick to prepare. Serve this weeknight vegetable dish with roti, phulka, paratha or rice. If you can't find tindora, try it with courgette cut to the same size.

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Indian

Keyword curry, gujarati, sweetcorn, tindora

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Author Sanjana

Ingredients

• 450 g tindora (ivy gourd/tendli/dondakaya)
• 285 g cooked sweetcorn I used tinned but fresh or frozen are fine too
• 2 large fresh tomatoes, diced
• 1 tsp tomato purée
• 3 cloves garlic peeled and crushed
• 50 ml any cooking oil
• 1 tsp black mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp chickpea flour (besan)
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground fennel seeds
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida
• 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin & coriander seeds (dhana-jeeru)
• 3/4-1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tbsp unsweetened desiccated coconut optional

Instructions

To prepare the tindora:

• Wash the tindora well in cold water. Dry them in a clean tea towel. Top and tail the tindora, removing only a small amount of the ends. Slice the tindora in half lengthways and then into quarters in the same direction.
• Heat the oil in a large pan. Once hot, add the sliced tindora. Stir fry the tindora in the oil, stirring all the time until tender and very slightly golden. Don't overcook the tindora – they should retain some crunch. This will take 5-6 minutes over a moderate heat. Remove the tindora from the pan using a slotted spoon and drain in a colander or plate lined with kitchen towel. Set aside.

To make the curry:

• Remove all but 1 tbsp oil from the pan. Add the mustard seeds and cook until they pop and crackle. Once the dance of the mustard seeds subsides, turn the heat down to low and add the cumin seeds and asafoetida. Sauté briefly, about 10 seconds.
• Add the chickpea flour and sauté for a further 20 seconds. The chickpea flour will turn a few shades darker, rather like a light caramel colour and give off a nutty aroma. Immediately add the tomatoes and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Now add the dry spices: ground cumin and coriander seeds, ground fennel seeds, chilli powder, ground turmeric and salt. Stir well to incorporate all the dry spices. If the mixture feels very dry, you can add a splash more water to moisten and prevent the spices from burning. Be sure not to add too much water as this is a dry-style curry. Stir all the time.
• After 2 minutes, add the cooked sweet corn and stir, cooking over a moderate heat for 1-2 minutes. Next, add the cooked tindora and fold the sweetcorn masala into it so everything is well coated. Cook this for an extra 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
• Garnish with fresh coriander and optional desiccated coconut. Serve hot with rotis, phulka, paratha or rice.

Video

Notes

• This curry is suitable for freezing. To freeze, pack the cooled curry into a freezer-safe container and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature and heat through until the curry is piping hot before serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume within 48 hours.
• If you can’t find tindora, try making this curry with young courgette cut to the same size, about 4cm in length.

Pin this recipe for later!

If you like this, you’ll love my recipe for Matar Paneer Rice

Love Sanjana

The post 30-Minute Tindora Curry with Corn appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

Try one of these tasty veg curries for roti for dinner tonight. Either serve as they are, or include a daal option.

You can also double up and choose two complimentary curries from the list to create a larger meal.

In Indian homes, we often choose lentils or legume curries or daals to serve alongside vegetable dishes. This rounds off a meal wonderfully and adds welcome protein.

What is Roti?

Everyday curries take centre stage in traditional Indian homes. They’re typically served with wholewheat chapatis, also known as roti.

Roti are hearty and simple to prepare, although round rolling is a skill that takes practice.

How to make Roti dough

Make the dough with a combination of wholewheat flour (atta), water and optional oil. I like to add a little oil for softer rotis, but you can skip it if you don’t mind them a little chewier.

Some families like to roll their rotis extra thinly to make phulka, which they sometimes place over an open flame to rise.

Having said this, I usually cook my rotis on a steel tawa from start to finish. A frying pan also works well.

I’ll include my simple Homemade Gujarati Roti (Rotli) recipe at the end of this post, along with a fabulous Soft Spinach Roti (Chapati) if you’re a fan of the green stuff.

Ready to be inspired with some easy and delicious vegetarian curry recipes?

10 Easy Veg Curries for Roti

1. Gobi Bhurji (Scrambled Cauliflower)

Gobi Bhurji (Indian Scrambled Cauliflower)

Gobi Bhurji (or Scrambled Cauliflower) is one of my favourite ways to enjoy a humble head of cauliflower. Simply grate it using a box grater, and sautee with onions, tomatoes and aromatic spices until tender. Serve this quick and easy scramble with buttered toast or buns for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Check out this recipe

2. Bateta nu Shaak (Potato Curry, Dry Style)

Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak

A tried and true recipe for Koru Bateta nu Shaak (Gujarati-style dry potato curry). This is my mother's exact recipe and the only way we make it at home. She has a few fabulous tips for achieving intense flavours and the perfect dry bhaji-style texture every time. This shaak pairs perfectly with Masala Poori and dahi (plain yoghurt).

Check out this recipe

3. Vegetable & Coconut Milk Kurma (South Indian Style)

Vegetable & Coconut Milk Kurma

This simple coconut milk-based curry is rich with aromatic spices, nuts and a rainbow of colourful vegetables. Make it in an Instant Pot if you have one, or simply simmer away on the stove. Serve with dosa for a delicious vegan meal that's gluten free too. It also pairs perfectly with rice, roti or paratha. Feel free to add any vegetables you have in the fridge, as long as the total weight is around 600g.

Check out this recipe

4. Quick & Easy Palak Paneer

Easy, Creamy Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a stick-to-your-ribs North Indian treasure that was made to be a filling vegetarian option. Serve with laccha paratha, roti, naan or rice!

Check out this recipe

5. Kadai Tofu & Vegetables

Kadai Tofu & Vegetables

Serve this dish hot with soft chapattis/phulkas, jalebi paratha or simply with jeera rice, salad and a cooling cucumber raita.

Check out this recipe

6. Rajma (North Indian-Style Kidney Bean Curry)

Rajma (Kidney Bean Curry)

While most of us use kidney beans as a filler ingredient in chillies, stews and salads, this Rajma (Kidney Bean Curry) makes the humble red bean the star of the show. The sauce is deeply aromatic, smooth and robust enough to take the beans from basic to beautiful. This is North Indian comfort food at its best.

Check out this recipe

7. Okra & Potato Sabzi (Gujarati-Style Bhinda & Bateta nu Shaak)

Gujarati-Style Okra & Potatoes

Gujarati-Style Okra & Potatoes (Bhinda Bateta nu Shaak) is an everyday comfort food in many Gujarati homes, including mine. It’s usually scooped up with soft, hot rotlis (chapattis), which is our daily bread. This curry is delicately flavoured with cumin seeds, turmeric, garlic and lemon juice for a fresh vegan dish that eats more like a stir fry than the heavy restaurant curries one might be used to.

Check out this recipe

8. Palak Baingan ka Bhartha (Burnt Aubergine & Spinach Curry)

Melt-in-the-Mouth Burnt Aubergine and Spinach Curry

Smoky aubergine cooked over an open flame + a WHOLE HEAD of garlic! This Indian Burnt Aubergine and Spinach Curry is a sure-fire hit with spice lovers. Yum!

Check out this recipe

9. Creamy, Restaurant-Style Matar Paneer

Creamy, Restaurant-Style Matar Paneer

I’ve got a sneaky Restaurant-Style Matar Paneer recipe that’ll knock your socks off and it’s easier than you think. The base sauce is made with ground almonds and tomatoes. The spicing is mild but complex, making you wonder if you really just made that at home in the comfort of your own kitchen, without having to go to a restaurant or pick up a takeaway menu. Mad skills.

Check out this recipe

10. Tofu Tikka Masala

Tandoori Tofu Tikka Masala (Vegan)

In my book, anything served on a stick is a winner. It seals the deal if what’s on the stick is smothered in a charred tandoori paste, restaurant style. Here’s my take on a British-‘Indian’ dish. It’s loaded with homemade tandoori spices, garlic, lemon, ground almonds and coconut cream. The best thing about it is that it’s 100% vegan. That’s got to get me extra brownie points, right?

Check out this recipe

So you have my top 10 Easy Veg Curries for Roti… but how do you make the Roti?

10 Easy Veg Curries for Roti are of course, incomplete without Roti. Here are my two favourite versions of the classic soft rotis.

It’s everyday fare that partners perfectly with any of the curries I’ve shared above.

Soft Spinach Roti

Can you believe the dough for these Soft Spinach Chapatis is enriched with a whole bag of spinach? Popeye would be proud! Pack a healthy portion of leafy greens into your meal with this easy recipe the whole family will love.

Check out this recipe

Enjoy these amazing Indian vegetarian curry recipes! If you make one, please share pictures with me via Instagram. I love to see your creations! Mention me @Sanjana.Feasts and use the hashtag #SanjanaFeasts

Pin this collection of 10 Easy Veg Curries for Roti to your Pinterest boards for later!

Love Sanjana

The post 10 Easy Veg Curries for Roti appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

Of the hundreds of styles potato curry out there, this Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak has to be one of my favourites. Its a representation of my mother’s love on a plate. My recipe is a reflection of hers and while it uses simple ingredients, the flavours never fail to blow me away.

The many forms of potato curry

With sauce, without sauce, spicy, mild, whole potatoes, sliced potatoes, diced potatoes, potato chips, stuffed potatoes and beyond. The many guises of potato curry are an endless fountain of creativity. Some have tomatoes, others have coconut, many are cooked with yoghurt, yet some are made creamy with nut and seed pastes. Sometimes they’re boiled, other times they’re fried, very often a dish will require you to do both.

I have an endless list of Potato Curries to try, but this is one I always flock home to this recipe. What can I say, I’m a creature of habit.

What makes this Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak special?

The fluffiness of the potatoes. The golden crust you get from the addition of mashed potato. The tanginess of tomatoes. The buttery ghee and toasted cumin. The creamy cashews. The aromatic curry leaves. Indeed, there are so many delicious things about this style of potato curry.

Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak: Troubleshooting

Print

Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak

A tried and true recipe for Koru Bateta nu Shaak (Gujarati-style dry potato curry). This is my mother's exact recipe and the only way we make it at home. She has a few fabulous tips for achieving intense flavours and the perfect dry bhaji-style texture every time. This shaak pairs perfectly with Masala Poori and dahi (plain yoghurt).

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Keyword cashews, curry, gujarati, potatoes

Prep Time 25 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Author Sanjana

Ingredients

• 1 kg any floury potatoes (I used Maris Piper)
• 3 tbsp ghee
• 2 tsp whole cumin seeds
• 12 curry leaves
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida
• 20 whole cashews
• 5 cm piece ginger, grated (about 1 tbsp)
• 2 thin green chillies, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 100 ml water
• 2 tbsp instant mashed potato
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 50 g fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped

Instructions

To cook the potatoes:

• It's always best to cook the potatoes whole, in their skins for this recipe. Wash the potatoes and prick them all over with a fork. Place on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high power for 8-10 minutes or until cooked all the way through. A knife should slide into the potatoes easily.
• If you don't want to microwave the potatoes, you can steam them whole until tender. I don't recommend boiling the potatoes as they will absorb excess water which isn't ideal for a dry-style curry like this.
• Allow the potatoes to cool slightly and then peel off the skins. Set aside to cool down completely.
• Use clean hands to break the now cold potatoes up into large pieces. The edges should be rough and rugged all over. This will ensure the masala clings to the potatoes really well. Mash one potato up roughly using your hands. This will help everything stick together better.

For the masala:

• Heat the ghee in a large pan. Add the cumin seeds and allow to sizzle for a few seconds. Next, add in the curry leaves, asafoetida and cashews. Sauté for a minute or two, just until the cashews turn a little golden.
• Throw in the ginger, chillies, tomato ketchup and tomato puree. Cook over a medium heat, stirring all the time until the raw smell of the tomatoes cooks off, about 90 seconds.
• Add the turmeric, salt and sugar. Stir well and then top up with water. Cook for a further 30 seconds.
• Add the potatoes to the masala and stir to combine. Sprinkle over the instant mashed potato and stir well. This is an amazing addition to this style of curry as it helps to achieve the sukha aloo bhaji-style texture. Keep the potatoes over a medium heat and allow the base to turn slightly golden in colour. Mix well and repeat. The golden bits of potato add another layer of flavour.
• Sprinkle over the black pepper and fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with Masala Poori.

Video

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• This curry is not suitable for freezing as it will change the texture of the potatoes significantly.

Pin it for later! Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak

If you like this, you’ll love my recipe for Masala Poori

The post Gujarati Koru Bateta nu Shaak appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

Serve with dosa for a delicious vegan meal that’s gluten free too. It also pairs perfectly with rice, roti or paratha. I love to eat this with Neer Dosa.

What’s the difference between Kurma and Korma?

Both Kurma and Korma have roots in Mughalai cuisine. They are one in the same, adapted to local tastes over centuries. Their shared heritage means the two curries are a culinary venn diagram. At the intersection lies nuts (often cashews and almonds), seeds (often white poppy seeds) and a handful of spices. The spices include, but are not limited to: Coriander seeds, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, mace (or nutmeg) and black peppercorns.

In the South of India, Kurma puts locally abundant coconuts to use for a rich and creamy foundation. In the North of India, yoghurt and dairy cream add the opulence and richness Mughal dishes are famous for with Korma. Both Kurma and Korma are made using meat or vegetables, and both the dishes are stew-like, mild and aromatic. They can be either white, yellow or orange in colour.

Making a creamy, flavoursome masala

Kurma by its very nature is a rich and creamy curry. I like to create a thick and luscious base for this dish using a combination of onions, cashews and something that’s not as common in Kurma — raw rice! An old trick in some households but something that’s recently amped up my South Indian-style curries.

First, I toast the rice up in the tadka (tempering) until golden. I like to blend my Kurma gravy for a smooth finish. Not only does this eliminate any chance of biting into whole spices, it also gives the cashews, rice and other aromatics a chance to get nice and familiar with one another. The result? TONNES of flavour!

Kurma: Troubleshooting

Print

Vegetable & Coconut Milk Kurma

This simple coconut milk-based curry is rich with aromatic spices, nuts and a rainbow of colourful vegetables. Make it in an Instant Pot if you have one, or simply simmer away on the stove. Serve with dosa for a delicious vegan meal that's gluten free too. It also pairs perfectly with rice, roti or paratha. Feel free to add any vegetables you have in the fridge, as long as the total weight is around 600g.

Course Breakfast, Lunch, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Indian

Keyword coconut, curry, south indian, vegan, vegetables

Prep Time 45 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Author Sanjana

Ingredients

• 150 g cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
• 150g red pepper diced
• 100 g French beans cut into pieces
• 100 g carrots cut into half moons
• 100g g sweetcorn I used a combination of corn on the cob and kernels
• 50 g peas I used frozen

For the sauce:

• 1 tbsp cooking oil I used rice bran
• 15 cashews
• 250 ml coconut milk
• 1 large onion finely chopped
• 6-7 curry leaves
• 2 green chillies slit lengthways
• 5 cm piece fresh ginger grated
• 5 cm cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 4 green cardamom pods
• 1 tsp whole coriander seeds
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1/2 tsp whole cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp black peppercorns
• 1/8 tsp fenugreek seeds
• 1 tbsp Basmati rice
• 1 large tomato (approx. 150g) cut into pieces
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 1/4 tsp salt
• 250 ml water

To serve:

• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• 4 lime wedges
• 1-2 tbsp coconut milk to drizzle on top

Instructions

• Heat the oil in a pan. Add the cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, peppercorns, fenugreek seeds, chillies, curry leaves, cashews, rice and onions. Saute for 4 minutes until the onion turns a light golden brown.
• Next, add the ginger, tomatoes and turmeric. Cook for a further 2 minutes. Pour in the water and stir well. Cover with a lid and cook for 10 minutes if cooking on the stove in a conventional pan.

  If using an Instant Pot, pressure cook on high with the vent closed for 5 minutes. Carefully remove the lid and check the cashews are tender. Allow to cool down.
• Remove the cinnamon stick and pile the mixture into a blender. Blend for 90 seconds until very smooth and creamy.
• Pour the mixture through a fine-holed mesh sieve back into the pan. Use the back of a spoon to press the mixture through and catch any whole spice pieces, tomato skins and seeds. Add 250ml water to the blender jar and rinse to ensure you're getting every last bit of sauce out. Pour this through the sieve too. Discard any skins or seeds left in the sieve.
• Return the pan to the heat. Add the coconut milk and season with salt. Add the vegetables (I used frozen peas so left these to the side until the end). Cover with a lid and cook for a further 15 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender.

  If using an Instant Pot, pressure cook on high with the vent closed for 10 minutes. Depressurise the pot and carefully remove the lid. Do this straight away or the vegetables may overcook.
• Add the peas and chopped coriander. Stir well and check the seasoning. Drizzle with coconut milk, if desired. Serve the Kurma hot with lime wedges and your favourite dosa, roti, paratha or rice.

Video

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or in a saucepan to ensure food is piping hot before serving.
• This South Indian-Style Vegetable Kurma is suitable for freezing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature and ensure food is piping hot before serving.

Pin it for later!

If you like this, you’ll love my recipe for Neer Dosa

The post Vegetable & Coconut Milk Kurma appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

The velvety texture and subtle spicing of this recipe for Saag Paneer ensures the peppery mustard leaves and juicy paneer are the true stars of the show.

What’s the difference between Saag Paneer and Palak Paneer?

You may or may not know that Saag Paneer and Palak Paneer are two completely different dishes. The names are often used interchangeably which is misleading.

Indian restaurants and big supermarkets are usually the worst offenders when it comes to making this mistake. Let me explain the difference here.

Greens used for Saag

Saag is a dish is made from a combination of leafy greens. It usually includes mustard leaves but can also feature bathua (goosefoot), chaulai (amaranth) and chane ka saag (chickpea leaves). Each one has a distinct flavour.

A dish is made from only spinach leaves and paneer is called Palak Paneer.

Saag Paneer vs. Palak Paneer. Why does it matter?

You know how people always confuse Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie? Well, many mix up Saag Paneer and Palak Paneer in the same way. Each is made using different ingredients which means they have very unique flavours.

Not all greens taste the same so the combination of leaves used can make a HUGE difference in the finished dish. I’m always disappointed when I order Saag Paneer and am served a bowl of Palak Paneer.

What do mustard leaves (sarson ka saag) look like?

Palak Paneer definitely doesn’t have the same peppery kick from the mustard greens as Saag Paneer does.

Can I use shop-bought paneer?

The short answer is yes. In fact, I encourage it. You don’t have to make your own paneer for this recipe unless you really want to.

If you do want to make your own paneer, head on over to my Homemade Paneer video for an easy step-by-step tutorial.

A bit about pressure cookers

I adore my pressure cooker. I’ve had one since I can remember because it’s so handy for making everyday Indian food. I use my pressure cooker for daal, curry, khichdi and more. It’s definitely one of my most prized possessions in the kitchen!

In this recipe, the pressure cooker breaks down the saag and aromatics in just 10 minutes. If you have an Instant Pot the saag takes around 5 minutes to cook on high power.

If you don’t have either, bring everything to the boil in a large stock pot and cover with a lid. Cook for 30 minutes until everything is tender.

How to make vegan Saag Paneer

Simple! To make vegan Saag Paneer, switch the paneer for fried firm tofu cubes. Replace the butter in the recipe with your favourite plant-based spread and substitute any plant-based cream for the single cream.

Do I need a blender to make Saag Paneer?

My recipe calls for a blender because it makes quick work of creating a smooth sauce. For that reason, I use a high-powered NutriBullet. However, you can use any blender you have, including a stick blender.

It’s also fine to serve the Saag Paneer chunky if that’s what you like. In Northern India (where Saag Paneer comes from), people chop all the greens and aromatics finely before cooking the saag low and slow.

The pot of saag is constantly beaten with a long spurtle (basically a wooden stick) to break everything down. You need serious arm power to make Saag under the Indian sun.

The finished dish is hearty and dark green.

How to make Saag Paneer

Step 1

Boil all the leafy greens and aromatics (ginger, garlic and onions) along with some water in a pressure cooker until tender. A pinch of baking soda will help the greens cook quickly!

This should only take 10 minutes, or 4 whistles in the cooker. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2

Transfer everything to a blender and add the cornmeal. The cornmeal thickens the saag up nicely. As a result, it has a nice, velvety texture. I like to add a knob of butter to the blender to help everything emulsify to a silky sauce.

Step 3

Pan fry the paneer in until golden and then soak in hot water (I just use kettle water) for 5 minutes. After a soak, the paneer will be juicy and squidgy.

Step 4

Give the inside of the pressure cooker a quick wipe. Heat butter in the pot and add the black cardamom, onions, garlic, and chillies. Cook for 10 minutes over a med-low heat. The onions should be lightly golden and soft.

Step 5

Add the saag mixture and stir. Cook for 5 minutes over a low heat, stirring all the time. Be careful as it will bubble and spit. Allow to thicken slightly. Stir in the salt and garam masala.

Step 6

Add the drained paneer to the saag and stir well. Heat through and serve piping hot with your favourite roti, paratha or naan.

What to serve with Saag

Serve this Saag Paneer the traditional Punjabi way with Makki ki Roti (thick cornmeal rotis), butter or ghee, onions and chillies. It might be a little non-traditional but I love Saag Paneer with rice.

How to make The Ultimate Saag Paneer

Print

The Ultimate Saag Paneer

The Ultimate Saag Paneer recipe is pure MAGIC! Soft paneer chunks in a creamy mustard greens & spinach sauce. Every bite will melt in your mouth. A true Indian comfort food meal.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Keyword curry, mustard greens, north indian, paneer, saag, spinach

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Author Sanjana

Equipment

• Pressure cooker

Ingredients

• 300 g mustard greens washed, roots trimmed
• 300 g spinach leaves washed
• 2 large onions cut into chunks
• 8 large cloves garlic peeled
• 6 cm piece ginger peeled and cut into chunks
• Small pinch baking soda
• 2 tbsp fine cornmeal
• 100 g butter
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 50 ml single cream
• 450 g shop-bought or homemade paneer cubed
• 2 tsp oil

For the tadka:

• 50 g butter
• 1 black cardamom whole
• 1 large onion finely sliced
• 3-4 green chillies chopped
• 4 large clove garlic finely sliced

To serve:

• Red onions finely sliced
• Chopped chillies
• Extra butter
• Paratha makki ki roti or wholewheat roti, to serve

Instructions

• In a large pressure cooker, add the mustard greens, spinach, onions, garlic, ginger and baking soda. Fix the lid onto the pot and cook for 10 minutes (4 whistles).
  
• While this cooks, pan-fry the paneer on all sides until golden. Once golden, put the paneer in to a large bowl and add enough boiling water to cover. Soak for 10 minutes and then drain. This will make the paneer chunks extra soft and remove any excess oil.
• Carefully release the steam from the pressure cooker and remove the lid. Allow to cool slightly. Add the cornmeal and butter, then blend to a smooth purée. The butter will help it emulsify for a smooth finish.
  
• Melt the butter in the same pot and add the black cardamom, sliced onions, chopped chillies and sliced garlic. Sauté over a low heat for 10 minutes until the onions are lightly golden brown and then add the blended saag. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the salt and garam masala. Cook for a further 5 minutes.
  
• Finally, add the paneer chunks and cream. Heat through. Serve immediately, garnished with red onions, extra butter and optional chillies.
  
• This pairs perfectly with paratha, makki ki roti (cornmeal roti) or wholewheat rotis.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Freeze the Saag Paneer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature and ensure food is piping hot before serving.
• For a vegan option: Replace the paneer with firm tofu, use vegan butter and any plant-based cream of your choice.

Pin The Ultimate Saag Paneer recipe for later!

If you like this, you’ll love my recipe for Tofu Dopiaza

Other recipes you might like

Homemade Paneer recipe

The Best Homemade Paneer (Softest-Ever Cubes!)

Soft and squidgy homemade paneer for curries, paratha fillings, chilli paneer, samosas and more. This simple recipe includes tips for making fresh paneer that tastes like it just came from the dairywala.

Check out this recipe

Restaurant-style Shahi Paneer recipe

Restaurant-Style Shahi Paneer

Delicious, rich & creamy Shahi Paneer is a vegetarian food hero in North Indian cuisine. Scoop this curry up with flaky parathas or serve with basmati rice.

Check out this recipe

Paneer Tikka recipe

Paneer Tikka

Juicy chunks of Indian cottage cheese marinated in homemade tandoori paste and grilled until charred. Perfect with naan, roti or paratha.

Check out this recipe

Love Sanjana

The post The Ultimate Saag Paneer appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.

Now that’s what I look for in a delicious, comforting dinner. I mean, have you seen the Vegan Broth with Tofu Skin & Noodles I posted recently? It’s LOADED with flavour.

Rendang is a fiery and richly-spiced Malaysian and Indonesian curry. Simmer it low and slow until the flavours come to life. As a result, it’s packed with flavour! My version brings all the flavours I love about rendang such as sweet lime leaves, citrusy lemongrass and sour tamarind pulp together in a quick-fix marinade.

Cook all the spices and then whiz it up in a blender to save time. Let me tell you now, this marinade smells HEAVENLY! The tofu and broccoli get to bathe in the warm spice paste for a while before crisping up under the grill. You can also roast it in the oven but I love the smoky barbecue-style finish you get from grilling.

Tips for customising these Easy Rendang Tofu & Broccoli Bowls

• MORE IDEAS: Transform this crispy tofu bowl into a luxurious and creamy curry by adding the cooked tofu and broccoli to a pan and pouring in a 400ml tin coconut milk + 250ml water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes and serve.
• Swap broccoli for sweet potato, cauliflower, French beans or even okra if you have those to hand. This is a great recipe for using up leftover veggies so go for a mix of veg if you like.
• Serve with plain white rice (I like to use Jasmine rice for this) for a neutral filler to temper the heat of the curry paste.

Print

Easy Rendang Tofu & Broccoli Bowls

Crispy, smoky tofu marinated in an aromatic rendang curry paste. Add a tin of coconut milk for a rich and creamy curry.

Course Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine Asian, Indonesian, Malaysian

Keyword broccoli, curry, easy, tofu, vegan

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

30 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour

Author Sanjana

Ingredients

• 400 g firm tofu
• 250 g broccoli florets blanched
• 2 shallots peeled and chopped
• 4 cloves garlic peeled and chopped
• 1- inch ginger or galangal peeled and grated
• 3 hot red chillies chopped
• 1- inch piece cinnamon
• 2 tbsp toasted coconut fresh or desiccated
• 2 cloves
• 1 star anise
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 stick lemongrass bruised
• 6 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 tbsp tamarind pulp
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• Boiled or steamed Jasmine rice to serve

Instructions

• Press the tofu between absorbent kitchen paper and weigh it down with something heavy for 30 minutes. I find a few tins of beans do the trick.
• Heat the oil in a pan. Add the shallots, garlic, ginger and chillies. Sauté for 30 seconds. Next, add the all the remaining ingredients and cook on a low heat for 10 minutes.
• Transfer to a blender and grind to a smooth paste.
• Slice the tofu into batons or cubes.
• Gently toss the tofu and broccoli in the spice paste and allow to marinate for 30 minutes or longer (you can keep it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days).
• Arrange the tofu and broccoli on a roasting tray and grill until crispy and a little charred. Turn them over and repeat for the other side.
• Serve with steamed or boiled rice and chopped coriander.

Notes

Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you have the time. Keep it marinating in the fridge for up to 2 days or alternatively, place into an air-tight container and freeze the tofu in the marinade for 3 months. Defrost at room temperature before cooking as per instructions above.

The post Easy Rendang Tofu & Broccoli Bowls appeared first on Sanjana.Feasts.