As per usual, last weekend during our errands, we bought a lot of vegetables and fruits. Our refrigerator broke a few days back. Since then, I have vowed not to stuff it again. But, it happened yet again. Every day, I take inventory of my fridge and decide on the menu for the day. After seeing two beautiful beetroots, I thought I would use them. Usually, I make beetroot raita, hummus, or halwa. I may also make Vegetable Cutlet/Croquettes or Beetroot Paneer Tikki. I thought of making something different today and surprising everyone for this midweek lunch.
What is Beetroot Kofta Curry?
Kofta is a term widely used for meatballs, but in India, there are many vegetable versions of it. In North India, we make Malai Kofta, Vegetable Kofta, and Lentil Kofta. The most popular is undoubtedly Malai Kofta. Beetroot Kofta Curry is a mix of grated beetroot, carrot, and paneers. It has a slightly sweet hint if you taste it and it is quite delicate. The freshness of the beetroots and carrots plays the main part here, and paneer is just the supporting actor. I used just a few things to make this kofta curry. The idea was to highlight the taste of beetroot, not spices. It’s quite subtle and the definition of a dish where just a few ingredients shine.
How to Make Beetroot Kofta Curry-
Don’t worry. It’s quite easy and doesn’t take much time. You can easily make it in under 35 minutes. In my version, I have air-fried the kofta balls after a quick saute in the pan. I didn’t want to lose that pretty pink color so I used air frying. However, you can shallow fry as well. I wouldn’t recommend deep frying because it ruins the color and delicate texture of the beetroot kofta. These kofta balls are simmered in a luscious, creamy gravy which will make you crave more. It’s amazing how such simple ingredients can transform into something so exquisite.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Beetroot Kofta Curry-
This goes well with both rice and bread. Since it has a royal charm, I like to serve it with Saffron Rice, Baked Amritsari Paneer Kulcha, or Baked Missi Roti. You can serve it with plain white rice or naan too.
Can You Store Air Fryer Beetroot Kofta Curry?
Absolutely. You can store Beetroot Kofta Curry in the fridge for up to two days. The best idea is to keep the kofta separate in an airtight container and place it in the fridge. Keep the gravy separate as well. You can assemble this in no time when you need to. You can keep dry kofta in the freezer too; it can stay there for up to one week. The curry has cream in it, so it cannot be stored for more than two days.
Can We Make This Kofta on the Stovetop?
Yes. I am sharing the air-fried recipe, but you can certainly shallow-fry it in a pan. Shallow frying works best when your kofta is a little flat-shaped. Make your kofta flat by pressing it softly in your palms and shallow fry it on medium-low flame. These kofta balls are not supposed to be crispy, so do not make an attempt at that. Fry it lightly so that it is cooked enough to put in gravy.
