Dhaniya Kofta is a delicious vegetarian recipe where soft dumplings are made with fresh coriander leaves, mashed potatoes, and gram flour besan. The koftas are deep-fried until golden and then gently simmered in a spiced tomato-onion gravy enriched with aromatic Indian spices. The combination of fresh herbs, creamy texture, and rich flavors makes this dish both hearty and satisfying. Served hot, Dhaniya Kofta pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or roti, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner. You can customize the gravy's consistency and richness by adding cream or yogurt. This aromatic dish is ideal for festive occasions or indulgent family meals.
Ingredients
For Kofta (Dumplings):
- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 2 medium boiled potatoes (mashed)
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon green chili paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- teaspoon garam masala
- teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Oil for frying
For Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped or pureed)
- 2 large tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- teaspoon garam masala
- teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 2 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cream or yogurt (for garnish, optional)
Step-By-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, gram flour (besan), and finely chopped coriander leaves.
- Add cumin seeds, turmeric powder, ginger paste, green chili paste, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Mix everything well.
- Knead this mixture into a soft dough-like consistency. It should hold together when shaped into small balls.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and roll them into small kofta balls using your palms.
Step 2: Fry the Koftas
- Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai for frying the koftas.
- Once the oil is hot, gently drop the kofta balls into the oil.
- Fry on medium heat until the koftas turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Avoid frying on high heat as the insides may remain raw.
- Remove the fried koftas onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a separate pan. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and saut for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the finely chopped onions (or onion puree) and cook until they turn golden brown. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Mix in the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook the masala until the oil separates from the sides, indicating that the tomatoes are fully cooked.
Step 4: Simmer the Gravy
- Add 2 cups of water to the cooked masala and mix well. Adjust the quantity of water depending on the thickness of gravy you prefer.
- Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the flame to low and let it simmer for about 5-6 minutes. This allows the spices to blend well.
- Add a pinch of sugar for balance (optional) and stir in a little garam masala for added flavor.
Step 5: Add the Koftas to the Gravy
- Carefully place the fried koftas into the simmering gravy. Do not stir too vigorously, as the koftas may break.
- Cover and let the koftas cook in the gravy for about 5 minutes on low heat, allowing them to soak up the flavors.
- If using fresh cream or yogurt for richness, drizzle a little over the gravy at this stage and mix gently.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once the koftas are well coated with the gravy and cooked through, turn off the heat.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves and a swirl of cream (optional).
- Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, roti, or jeera rice.
Tips to Enhance the Recipe
- Soft Koftas: Ensure the kofta mixture is not too dry. If needed, add a little water or a teaspoon of oil while kneading.
- Crispy Koftas: Fry on medium heat to achieve a crispy texture without burning.
- Consistency of Gravy: Adjust water according to whether you prefer a thick or thin gravy.
- Healthier Option: Instead of deep frying, you can shallow fry or air-fry the koftas for a healthier version.
Conclusion
Dhaniya Kofta is a delicious vegetarian dish that combines fresh coriander flavors with soft dumplings in a rich, spiced gravy. Perfect for special occasions or a hearty meal, it pairs wonderfully with rice or Indian breads. Try this detailed recipe and bring the goodness of fresh herbs and spices to your table.