Introduction
Malai kofta is a popular Indian dish that consists of fried dumplings made from mashed potatoes and paneer, served in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Traditionally, this dish is deep-fried, which can make it quite heavy and calorie-laden. However, with the advent of air fryers, it’s now possible to enjoy a healthier version of malai kofta without compromising on taste and texture. In this article, we’ll explore how to make air fryer malai kofta and why it’s a great option for those looking to indulge in a guilt-free treat.
The Benefits of Using an Air Fryer
Air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their ability to cook food with little to no oil. By using hot air circulation, air fryers can mimic the crispy texture of deep-frying while significantly reducing the amount of oil used. This makes them a fantastic tool for creating healthier versions of traditionally fried dishes, such as malai kofta.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Malai Kofta
To make air fryer malai kofta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 200 grams paneer, grated
- 2 tablespoons cornflour
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts, soaked and ground into a paste
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Chopped coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
Follow these steps to make air fryer malai kofta:
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture
In a bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, grated paneer, cornflour, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Knead the mixture well until it forms a smooth dough-like consistency.
Step 2: Shape and Coat the Koftas
Take a small portion of the kofta mixture and shape it into a round ball. Roll the ball in bread crumbs until it is evenly coated. Repeat this process for the remaining mixture.
Step 3: Air Fry the Koftas
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Lightly brush the koftas with oil and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the koftas turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a pan, heat oil and sauté the finely chopped onions until they turn translucent. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates. Then, add the cashew nut paste, cream, sugar, and salt. Stir well and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine the Koftas and Sauce
Gently place the air-fried koftas into the prepared sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Conclusion
Air fryer malai kofta is a fantastic alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy this delectable dish with significantly less oil and fewer calories. The koftas turn out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, while the creamy tomato-based sauce adds a burst of flavor. So, why not give this healthier version a try and indulge in guilt-free malai kofta today?