Kofta Recipe (Meatballs)

Kofta Masala | Kofta Gravy | Koftay Recipe

Kofta gravy is a dish that everyone loves. Generally, this recipe is prepared in various styles and with different methods in every household.

The recipe I am sharing with you today is my grandmother’s. When she used to make this kofta recipe, I was just 4 or 5 years old, and I remember relishing it with great delight.9 May Allah grant my grandmother the highest place in Jannah0; she was an exceptional cook. My mother also learned to cook after her marriage, primarily from my grandmother.

When I began learning how to cook, this kofta recipe was one of the first I mastered, and it turned out perfectly on my very first attempt. Now, Alhamdulillah, my daughter also enjoys this kofta recipe immensely. I encourage you all to try making it as well, and please do share your experience with me.

Ingredients :

• 1 kg lean meat (fat removed)
• 3 tbsp roasted gram flour (besan)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 4 green chillies, finely chopped
• 1 bunch fresh coriander, chopped
• Half bunch mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder (haldi)
• 1 tsp red chilli flakes (I used half teaspoon)
• 1 tsp red chilli powder (I used half teaspoon)
• 1 tsp garam masala powder

Ingredients for Kofta Masala (Spice Mix):

• 1 tbsp paprika powder (degi lal mirch) (optional)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds (zeera)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tsp red chilli flakes ( I used 1 teaspoon)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder (haldi)
• 1 tsp garam masala powder
• 1-2 tsp poppy seeds (khaskhas)

Ingredients for Gravy:

• 250 grams oil or ghee
• 1 tbsp whole garam masala (sabit garam masala)
• 2-3 bay leaves (tez patta)
• 2½ tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 250 grams yogurt
• 4-5 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 litre water
• 2-3 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)

Ingredients for Tarka (Tempering):

• ½ cup oil or ghee
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds (zeera)

Garnish:

• Fresh green chillies
• Fresh coriander leaves

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Kofta (Meatballs):

1. In a large bowl, combine the lean meat, roasted gram flour, salt, green chillies, fresh coriander, mint leaves, turmeric powder, red chilli flakes, red chilli powder, and garam masala powder.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small, round balls (koftas) and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Kofta Masala (Spice Mix):

1. In a blender or grinder, combine paprika powder, cumin seeds, salt, red chilli flakes, turmeric powder, garam masala powder and poppy seeds.
2. Grind into a fine powder. You can store this masala in an airtight jar for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the whole garam masala and bay leaves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
5. Stir in the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
6. Add the prepared kofta masala and mix well.
7. Whisk the yogurt and add it to the pot, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
8. Add 1 litre of water and bring the gravy to a gentle boil.
9. If using potatoes, add the cubed potatoes at this stage and cook until tender.

Step 4: Cook the Koftas:

1. Gently drop the prepared koftas into the simmering gravy.
2. Cover the pot and let the koftas cook in the gravy for 15-20 minutes on low heat. Avoid stirring too much to prevent the koftas from breaking.

Step 5: Prepare the Tarka (Tempering):

1. In a small pan, heat oil or ghee.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Pour the tempering over the cooked kofta gravy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish the kofta curry with fresh green chillies and coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Enjoy your delicious Kofta Gravy!