Cabbage Kofta Veg Recipes of India: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Cabbage Kofta is a delightful and flavorful vegetarian dish from India that turns humble cabbage into delicious, melt-in-your-mouth koftas (fried vegetable balls) simmered in a rich, spiced tomato gravy.

This recipe beautifully combines the crunch and mild sweetness of cabbage with aromatic spices and herbs, making it a perfect choice for a festive meal or a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned Indian cuisine lover or new to vegetarian koftas, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of texture and taste that will quickly become a favorite.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the steps to make soft, perfectly spiced cabbage koftas and a luscious curry that complements them wonderfully. You’ll also find tips to customize the dish and serving suggestions to impress your guests or simply enjoy a comforting homemade meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage Kofta is not only a delicious vegetarian delicacy but also packed with nutrition and flavors. The koftas are crispy outside yet soft inside, making every bite a delightful experience.

This dish is perfect for special occasions as well as everyday meals, offering a great way to use cabbage creatively.

What makes this recipe stand out?

• Uses simple, fresh ingredients easily found in any kitchen.
• The combination of cabbage with spices creates a unique and appetizing flavor profile.
• The tomato-based gravy is rich and fragrant, complementing the koftas perfectly.
• Suitable for vegetarians and can be made vegan with minor adjustments.

Ingredients

• For the Koftas:
• 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
• 1 medium potato, boiled and mashed
• 2 tablespoons chickpea flour (besan)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying
• For the Gravy:
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup fresh cream or coconut milk (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Grater or food processor (for shredding cabbage)
• Deep frying pan or kadai
• Slotted spoon
• Blender or food processor (for pureeing tomatoes)
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving dish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Wash and finely shred the cabbage using a grater or food processor. Squeeze out excess water using your hands or a clean cloth. This helps the koftas hold together better.
2. Make the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, boiled mashed potato, chickpea flour, ginger-green chili paste, cumin seeds, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture comes together and is slightly sticky.
3. Form the Koftas: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized round balls. If the mixture is too loose, add a little more chickpea flour.
4. Fry the Koftas: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully drop the koftas in batches and fry until golden brown and crisp on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
5. Prepare the Gravy: In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
6. Add Spices and Tomato: Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well. Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook on medium heat until the oil separates from the masala (about 8-10 minutes).
7. Finish the Gravy: Add garam masala and stir. If using, add fresh cream or coconut milk to give a rich texture and balance the spices. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes.
8. Combine Koftas and Gravy: Gently add the fried koftas to the gravy. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the koftas to absorb some flavor but be careful not to break them.
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.

Tips & Variations

For crispier koftas, make sure to squeeze out all moisture from the cabbage before mixing.

• Try adding grated carrots or peas to the kofta mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure chickpea flour is certified gluten-free or substitute with rice flour.
• Instead of frying, you can also bake the koftas at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway for a healthier option.
• Adjust the spice levels by varying the amount of chili powder and ginger-green chili paste.
• Use vegan cream alternatives like cashew cream or coconut cream to keep the dish vegan-friendly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage Kofta pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian breads such as naan or roti. For a complete meal, serve it alongside steamed basmati rice or fragrant jeera rice.

To balance the richness of the kofta curry, accompany it with a fresh cucumber raita or a tangy salad. For a fun twist, try it with Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula to add a fusion flair to your meal.

Conclusion

Cabbage Kofta is a shining example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into an extraordinary dish that impresses both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy rich, spiced Indian flavors and want to incorporate more vegetables into their meals without compromising on taste.

By following this step-by-step recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, cabbage kofta offers a nutritious and delicious option that everyone will love.

Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes like Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or Halibut Dip Recipe for more culinary inspiration!

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