Name: Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, grated; 1 large egg; 4 tablespoons panko bread crumbs (or 2 tablespoons chickpea flour); 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; 1 tablespoon chopped mint (or 1 teaspoon dry mint); 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste; 2 teaspoons garam masala (or tikka masala); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or red chili powder); 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra if needed); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon chili powder (or paprika); 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 chili pepper, chopped (jalapeno, cayenne, or serrano); 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1½ cups crushed tomatoes; 1 cup whole yogurt, whipped; 2 tablespoons fenugreek leaves (fresh chopped or 1 tablespoon dried); 1 cup water; 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 3 reviews

If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant spices, tender meatballs, and a luscious sauce, then you are in for a treat with this Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe. This classic Indian-inspired dish combines juicy ground beef meatballs—called koftas—with a rich, aromatic tomato-yogurt curry packed with warming spices and fragrant herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish promises hearty comfort and exciting flavors that will make you feel like you’ve traveled right into the heart of a bustling Indian kitchen. Get ready to embrace the soulfulness of this Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe that is as satisfying as it is memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white oval pot with red handles is filled with an orange-red thick sauce and several brown round and oval meat pieces floating on top. The pot sits on a black and silver electric cooker placed on a white marbled surface. To the left, there is a single yellow onion and a green chili, while on the right side, three red tomatoes rest next to a shiny white spoon holder holding a wooden spoon stained with dark sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is essential to creating the magic of this dish. Each one is simple yet plays a crucial role in layering the flavors and textures that make this curry unforgettable. From fresh herbs to distinctive spices, this list will prepare you to make a Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe that’s full of depth and character.

Ground beef: The star protein for tender and juicy koftas, providing hearty flavor and texture.
Onion (grated and chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to both the meatballs and the curry base.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together perfectly.
Panko bread crumbs or chickpea flour: Helps keep the koftas soft and moist without getting dense.
Fresh cilantro and mint: Bright, fresh herbs that lift the flavor profile beautifully.
Ginger garlic paste: Key for that authentic, aromatic foundation in Indian cooking.
Garam masala and spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, red pepper flakes): Your flavor powerhouse, balancing warmth, smokiness, earthiness, and heat.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing and enriching the curry sauce.
Tomato paste and crushed tomatoes: Create a robust, tangy, and creamy curry base.
Yogurt (whole, whipped): Adds creaminess and a slight tang that mellows the spices.
Fenugreek leaves: A magical, slightly bitter herb that gives an unmistakable signature taste to the curry.
Water: Helps in adjusting the sauce consistency for the perfect gravy.
Heavy cream (optional): For an extra touch of lush creaminess when serving.
Chili pepper: Adds a fresh, vibrant kick to the curry’s heat.

How to Make Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining the ground beef with grated onion, egg, panko bread crumbs or chickpea flour, chopped cilantro and mint, ginger garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix and knead the mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes. This ensures the spices are well-distributed and the texture is consistent. Then, let it rest for a while so the flavors can mingle and the mixture firms up enough to shape.

Step 2: Shape and Broil the Koftas

Shape the mixture into 16 smooth, cylindrical or round koftas. Place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and broil on high for 3 to 5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, since broiling times vary. You want a nice browned surface, but they’re not fully cooked yet—they’ll finish cooking inside the curry. If you prefer, grilling is a fantastic alternative that adds a subtle smoky flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Spices for the Curry Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions until golden brown. This caramelization builds the foundation for your sauce’s deep flavor. Then add ginger garlic paste and cook for another two minutes until fragrant. Stir in garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt to toast the spices and release their oils—this step is essential for a richly aromatic sauce.

Step 4: Build the Tomato and Yogurt Sauce

Add chopped chili pepper and tomato paste, stirring for a couple of minutes before pouring in crushed tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer briefly. Then gently whisk in the whipped whole yogurt, ensuring the sauce stays creamy without curdling. Stir in fenugreek leaves to infuse the sauce with their distinct flavor. Add water to adjust the consistency and let the curry simmer for about 20 minutes until you see some oil starting to surface—this signals the sauce is robust and well-cooked.

Step 5: Combine Koftas with Curry and Finish Cooking

Gently add the partially cooked koftas to the simmering sauce. Check seasoning and adjust salt and spice levels as necessary. Increase the heat until the curry bubbles, then reduce to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so the koftas absorb all the wonderful flavors and finish cooking through perfectly.

Step 6: Garnish and Final Touches

Scatter freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of color and freshness. If you want to add an indulgent finish, drizzle some heavy cream or more whipped yogurt on the curry. This touch adds silky richness and balances the spices beautifully.

How to Serve Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe

A red oval baking dish filled with a rich, orange-red sauce with visible meatballs and dollops of creamy white sauce on top, garnished with chopped green herbs. The dish sits on a white crocheted cloth over a white marbled surface. Next to it, a white bowl holds triangular pieces of golden brown flatbread. Nearby, two small white bowls contain sliced green vegetables and lemon slices. A woman's hand is holding a piece of flatbread above the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is a classic garnish that brightens the dish with color and a hint of herbal zest. For a creamier presentation, adding a swirl of heavy cream or yogurt on top not only looks pretty but also adds cooling softness to each bite. Toasted nuts like cashews can provide a delightful crunch and an extra layer of texture.

Side Dishes

Kofta Curry pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm flatbreads like naan, roti, or paratha, which help soak up the luxurious sauce. A side of cucumber raita or a simple cucumber salad adds refreshing coolness and balances the warmth of the spices perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dinner, serve kofta curry in individual bowls topped with garnishes and a dollop of cream. You can also layer the koftas and sauce over a bed of saffron rice for a stunning visual. Alternatively, turn the koftas into a filling for pita pockets with fresh greens and chutney for a fun fusion twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftover kofta curry to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or next-day enjoyment.

Freezing

This Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Freeze portions of the curry with koftas in heavy-duty freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing yogurt-based sauces for much longer than this.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much during refrigeration. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent yogurt curdling and preserve that luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I make koftas with chicken or lamb instead of beef?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, chicken or lamb are fantastic alternatives that bring their own character to the dish. Just be gentle with mixing as chicken koftas can be more delicate.

What can I substitute for fenugreek leaves if I don’t have them?

Fenugreek leaves add a distinctive bittersweet aroma, but if unavailable, dried mustard greens or a small pinch of maple syrup can mimic part of their flavor. The curry will still be delicious but slightly different.

Is this dish spicy? How can I adjust the heat?

This Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe is medium spicy by default. You can easily reduce heat by using less chili powder and omitting fresh chili peppers or increase it by adding more red pepper flakes or hotter chilis to suit your palate.

Can I prepare the koftas ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix and shape the koftas a day in advance, then refrigerate them covered. Broil or grill just before adding to the curry to keep the meatballs fresh and flavorful.

What is the secret to making the meatballs tender and juicy?

Using panko bread crumbs or chickpea flour along with grated onion and egg helps retain moisture and yields tender koftas. Also, avoid overcooking during broiling and allow them to simmer gently in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry) Recipe is one of those dishes that brings warmth to the soul and a smile to the table. It’s a blend of authentic spices, fresh herbs, and hearty meatballs that makes every bite a celebration. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—whether for a special occasion or when you want to spoil yourself with something truly comforting and flavorful. Once you do, it will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection!