Creamy Spinach Kofta Curry

This dish brings together the goodness of spinach and the indulgence of a rich, creamy curry. The koftas (dumplings) are melt-in-your-mouth soft, and the luxurious tomato sauce complements them beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Kofta:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 cup grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
• 1/2 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
• 1/4 cup chickpea flour (besan)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for frying

For the Curry:

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Kofta:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, grated paneer, mashed potatoes, chickpea flour, cumin seeds, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well until a dough-like consistency is achieved.
   • Shape the mixture into small balls (koftas).

2. Fry the Kofta:

   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Carefully add the koftas and fry them until they turn golden brown on all sides. Once done, remove them and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

3. Make the Curry:

   • In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee.
   • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté until they are golden.
   • Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil begins to separate, about 5–7 minutes.
   • Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
   • Stir in the cream or coconut milk and simmer for another 5 minutes.
   • Finally, add garam masala to the curry sauce.

4. Serve:

   • Carefully add the koftas into the curry and let them simmer for a couple of minutes.