A traditional Punjabi recipe for Rajma Masala, a flavorful kidney bean curry.

Rajma Masala recipe
Prep Time
12hr 0min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
12hr 45min

Ingredients

9 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Main Ingredients

  • rajma (kidney beans)
    rajma (kidney beans)
    400g
  • salt
    salt
    1pinch

Wet Ingredients

  • onion paste or chopped onions
    onion paste or chopped onions
    2cups
  • tomato puree
    tomato puree
    2cups
  • garlic paste
    garlic paste
    2tbsp
  • coriander leaves
    coriander leaves
    2tbsp
  • green chilli
    green chilli
    5
  • desi ghee
    desi ghee
    2tbsp

Dry Ingredients

  • cumin seeds
    cumin seeds
    1tsp
  • salt to taste
    salt to taste
    1pinch
  • red chilli powder
    red chilli powder
    1/2tsp
  • degi mirch powder
    degi mirch powder
    1tsp
  • turmeric powder
    turmeric powder
    1/2tsp
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tsp
  • garam masala
    garam masala
    1tsp

How to make Rajma Masala

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Wash and soak the rajma overnight.

  2. Step 2

    Add a little salt and pressure cook the rajma until 4-5 whistles.

Cooking

  1. Step 1

    Heat desi ghee in a pan.

  2. Step 2

    Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

  3. Step 3

    Add onion paste and sauté until golden brown.

  4. Step 4

    Add garlic paste and green chillies, sauté for a minute.

  5. Step 5

    Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.

  6. Step 6

    Add red chilli powder, degi mirch powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt to taste. Mix well.

  7. Step 7

    Add the cooked rajma along with its water. Stir well and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.

  8. Step 8

    Add garam masala and coriander leaves. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

150.0kcal (7.5%)

Protein

7.8g (15.56%)

Carbs

24.4g (8.89%)

Sugars

2.2g (4.44%)

Healthy Fat

1.7g

Unhealthy Fat

1.7g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a richer flavor, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned puree.

  2. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference.

FAQS

  1. How do I prepare rajma for Rajma Masala?

    To prepare rajma for Rajma Masala, wash and soak the kidney beans overnight in plenty of water. This helps to soften them and reduces cooking time. The next day, pressure cook the soaked rajma with a little salt until you hear 4-5 whistles.

  2. Can I make Rajma Masala vegan or vegetarian?

    Yes, Rajma Masala is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan. Simply use vegetable oil instead of desi ghee for sautéing the spices and onions. The dish remains flavorful and delicious without any animal products.

  3. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in Rajma Masala?

    If you don't have desi ghee, you can substitute it with any cooking oil like olive oil or coconut oil. For the onion paste, finely chopped onions work just as well. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of green chillies or use bell peppers instead.

  4. How should I store leftover Rajma Masala?

    Leftover Rajma Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2-3 months.

  5. What dishes pair well with Rajma Masala?

    Rajma Masala pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or even roti and naan. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber salad or yogurt to balance the spices and enhance the meal.

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Preeti Kalia

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