Crispy Malai Kofta in White Gravy made in Appe Pan

Love your Malai Kofta but looking for a twist to your favorite recipe? Look no further than the flavorful Malai Kofta in white gravy / sauce. If you're a fan of Indian cuisine, you've likely encountered the delightful Malai Kofta most likely at an Indian restaurant. Traditionally served in a tomato-based sauce, this version features a creamy white gravy that elevates the dish to a new level of indulgence. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe will help you bring the flavors of a high-end Indian restaurant into your own kitchen.

Jump to:

• What is Malai Kofta in White Gravy
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Secret to White Malai Kofta
• Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage - How to Store
• Top Tip
• More Paneer Recipes
• Pairing Options
• White Malai Kofta in Appe Pan

What is Malai Kofta in White Gravy

The name itself tells you everything you need to know - "malai" means cream, and "kofta" refers to the balls made from mashed ingredients. Initially, these koftas were made with meat, but the vegetarian version with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) gained popularity as it spread through the diverse Indian subcontinent.

Traditionally, Malai Kofta came swimming in a rich, tomato-based orange gravy that was thick with spices and cream. The white gravy version of Malai Kofta is a relatively modern twist on the classic.

Ingredients

Please refer to the recipe card for the ingredients and measurements.

Instructions

The soul of malai kofta begins with perfect paneer. Fresh, homemade paneer gives your koftas that melt-in-your-mouth texture that store-bought varieties simply can't match. If making it at home isn't an option, look for soft, fresh paneer at Indian grocery stores.

Prepare the Koftas (Using the Appe Pan)

• In a bowl, mix grated potatoes and Mahout paneer.
• Add cilantro, chili, cashews, raisins, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
• Gently mix until the dough holds its shape. If it feels too wet, add a little more flour.
• Roll into small balls — about the size of a ping pong ball.
• Heat your appe pan on medium-low. Add a drop of oil into each cavity and brush it around.
• Place the koftas in each slot and cover with a lid. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning gently with a skewer or spoon until all sides are golden and crisp.
• Remove and keep warm.

Make the Silky White Gravy

• In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
• Add chopped onions and cashews. Boil for 4–5 minutes until onions are soft.
• Drain the water, transfer to a blender, add ½ cup yogurt, and blend into a smooth, creamy paste.
• In another pan, heat 2 tablespoon oil + 2 tablespoon butter.
• Add cinnamon stick, cardamoms, and bay leaves. Sauté for 30 seconds.
• Add chopped ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in the onion-cashew-yogurt paste and cook on low heat for 5–6 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Add salt, sugar, and white pepper. Stir in crushed kasuri methi and cream.
• Simmer for 2–3 more minutes until the gravy is silky and slightly thickened. Add warm water if needed to loosen.

Assemble and Serve

• Garnish with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of kasuri methi or chopped cilantro.
• Place the warm koftas in a serving dish.
• Pour the hot gravy gently over them.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake	Result	Solution
Gravy curdling	Grainy texture in the sauce	Add yogurt and cream over low heat, stirring continuously. Ensure the yogurt is at room temperature to prevent curdling.
Gravy too thick	Overly dense sauce	Adjust the consistency by adding a small amount of warm water or milk until the desired thickness is achieved.

Serving Suggestions

Serve malai kofta with:

• Naan or roti
• Jeera Rice or Peas Pulao – The subtle flavors of cumin or peas complement the kofta without overpowering it.
• Cucumber or Dahi Vada
• Onions in vinegar or a mango pickle
• To make a full Indian meal, serve with a side of Dal makhani or Kachumber salad

Storage - How to Store

Storage Method	Duration	Instructions
Refrigeration (Gravy only)	Up to 3 days	Store the gravy in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving.
Refrigeration (Koftas only)	Up to 2 days	Store the fried koftas separately. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain texture.
Freezing (Koftas only)	Up to 1 month	Freeze the koftas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat before serving.

More Paneer Recipes

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

Pairing Options

These are my favorite dishes to serve along with Malai Kofta in White Gravy:

Print