Arbi Kofta Recipe: Make Delicious Taro Root Kofta at Home

Introduction

Arbi (taro root) is a popular vegetable in Indian households, especially during festive seasons and fasting days. When turned into crispy, flavorful koftas simmered in a rich gravy, it becomes a perfect dinner dish that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is simple, wholesome, and packed with authentic Indian flavors.

Ingredients for Arbi Kofta

For Koftas

• 500 g arbi (taro root), boiled and peeled
• 2 tbsp gram flour (besan)
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

For Gravy

• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tsp ginger‑garlic paste
• 2 tbsp curd (yogurt)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step‑by‑Step Method

1. Prepare the Koftas

• Mash the boiled arbi in a bowl.
• Add gram flour, green chilies, ginger paste, cumin seeds, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt.
• Mix well to form a smooth dough.
• Shape into small round balls.
• Heat oil in a pan and deep fry until golden brown.
• Keep aside on absorbent paper.

2. Make the Gravy

• Heat oil or ghee in a pan.
• Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
• Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
• Mix in ginger‑garlic paste and cook for a minute.
• Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
• Stir in turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt.
• Whisk curd and add to the masala, stirring continuously.
• Cook for 2–3 minutes, then add water to adjust consistency.

3. Combine Koftas and Gravy

• Gently add fried arbi koftas into the gravy.
• Simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors blend.
• Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with chapati, naan, or steamed rice.
• A side of salad or raita makes the meal complete.
• Perfect for dinner parties or festive occasions.

Tips for Best Taste

• Ensure arbi is boiled just right — too soft will make koftas mushy.
• Fry koftas on medium heat for crisp texture.
• Add curd carefully to avoid curdling; whisk well before adding.
• For a richer taste, replace oil with ghee in the gravy.

Conclusion

Arbi Kofta is a delightful Indian dish that combines the earthy flavor of taro root with aromatic spices. Crispy koftas soaked in creamy gravy make it a crowd‑pleaser. Try this recipe for dinner and watch everyone ask for second servings.