Rajma Masala

• Nutrition Information (Estimated per serving): Calories: 350-400 kcal | Protein: 15g | Carbohydrates: 50g | Fat: 10g

• The Story Behind Rajma Masala (History):

  Rajma Masala is a quintessential comfort food from North India, especially Punjab. While kidney beans originated in the Americas, they were brought to India and wholeheartedly adopted into the local cuisine. Rajma Chawal (kidney beans with rice) is a classic Sunday meal in many Punjabi households. The dish consists of red kidney beans cooked in a thick, flavorful gravy made from onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.

  

  
  

• Ingredients (English):

• 1 cup Red Kidney Beans (Rajma), soaked overnight

• 2 tbsp Oil

• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds

• 1 large Onion, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste

• 2 large Tomatoes, pureed

• 1 tsp Red Chili Powder

• ½ tsp Turmeric Powder

• 1 tsp Coriander Powder

• 1 tsp Rajma Masala

• Salt to taste

• Fresh Cilantro, chopped

• Method (English):

• Cook Rajma: Pressure cook the soaked rajma with 4 cups of water and salt for 6-8 whistles until very soft.

• Make Masala: Heat oil. Sauté cumin seeds, then onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste.

• Cook Gravy: Add tomato puree and all powdered spices. Cook until oil separates.

• Combine & Simmer: Add the cooked rajma along with its water to the masala. Mash some beans to thicken the gravy. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.

• Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice.

Pro Tips & Fun Facts (Tidbits):

The key to a creamy, melt-in-the-mouth Rajma is to cook the beans until they are very soft. Soaking them overnight is a crucial first step. After cooking, mashing a few of the beans against the side of the pot helps to create a naturally thick and luscious gravy. Don't skip the final sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of butter or ghee for that authentic touch.

• Instant Pot Method:

• EN: Use "Sauté" to make the masala. Add soaked rajma, salt, and 3 cups of water. Pressure cook on "High" for 30 minutes. Let pressure release naturally.

• Air-Fryer Method:

• Note: This recipe is not suitable for an Air-Fryer.

How To Make It Vegan

This recipe is easily made vegan. Ensure you use Oil instead of ghee for the masala. If your recipe calls for a cream garnish, omit it or use a swirl of coconut cream.