Instructions: Kofta, a classic dish of Moghul origin, is one of the most important preparations of Indian vegetarian cuisine. Traditionally, koftas are simmered in a delicate sauce and turned into a curried main dish. These kebabs are wonderful served as cocktail appetizers with a yogurt or fruity dipping sauce.

INGREDIENTS:
KOFTA:
2 large russet potatoes, boiled, peeled, mashed 1/2 cup green peas, fresh or frozen 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 1 fresh hot green chile, chopped 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/4 cup chopped cashew nuts 1 tablespoon raisins 3/4 cup chick-pea flour or corn flour (see note) 1 cup water Mild vegetable oil for deep frying

SPICY CREAM SAUCE:
8 whole cashew nuts 2 whole cloves Pinch nutmeg 1/2-inch cinnamon stick 1 garlic clove, peeled 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 large onion, grated Pinch turmeric 2 teaspoons paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup half-and-half 1 cup water 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro The kofta: Combine potatoes, peas, cheese, chile, coriander, cumin, salt, cashews and raisins.

Form mixture into 1-inch balls.

Make a batter with the flour and water. Season with pinch of salt, if desired.

Heat oil to 375 degrees F in a deep fryer or large heavy saucepan. Dip balls into batter to coat completely, and deep-fry until brown (do not crowd), about 4 minutes. Set aside.

(If you want the kebabs to remain firm, put them on a heated serving platter, and tent with foil. To serve, bring cream sauce to a boil and pour over kebabs.)

The sauce: Grind cashews, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and garlic with a little water to make a fine paste. Set aside.

Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and saute until wilted; stir in ground paste and cook 2 minutes.

Add turmeric, paprika, coriander, cayenne and salt. Stir in half-and-half and water. Reduce heat and simmer about 15 minutes.

(May be prepared 2 days ahead, cooled, covered and refrigerated.)

Stir in cream and kofta kebabs. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.

Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.

Serves 4,

Note: Chick-pea flour (also called besan) may be purchased at Indian grocery stores.

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