RAJMA MASALA

A nutritious kidney bean dish that can be enjoyed as the perfect winter comfort food. The beans hold their shape & texture well and lend a nutty flavour to the curry which compliments the flavors of the spices very well.

Serves: 6 people | Prep : 15 mins | Cooking : 30 mins

Health Hack: Red kidney beans are a great source of protein, especially for vegetarians and vegans . They have a good profile of minerals and electrolytes and also help maintain healthy gut environment by providing necessary fibre.

Fresh Ingredients

Red kidney beans (Rajma) - 400gms (soaked overnight)
Onions - 2 large
Tomatoes - 4 large, pureed
Fresh coriander - handful, finely chopped
Salt - to taste
Vegetable oil - 4 tbsp

Spices

Bay leaves - 2
Black cardamoms - 3
Cloves - 5
Cinnamon - 1 stick
Ginger and garlic paste - 2 tbsp
Coriander powder - 1 tbsp
Cumin powder - 1 tsp
Red chilli powder - ½ tsp
Turmeric powder - ½ tsp
Kashmiri chilli powder - 1 tbsp
Garam masala - ½ tsp

Step 1

Pressure cook red kidney beans with 1.5 litres of water, whole spices (bay leaves, black cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon), whole onions, and salt until the beans are soft and fully cooked. Remove the boiled onions and set them aside.

Step 2

Heat oil in a wide bottom pan. Add onions and brown them over moderate heat. Add ginger-garlic paste and continue to sauté until the onions turn golden.

Step 3

Add tomato puree, salt, and mix well. Continue to cook on medium heat for a few minutes.

Step 4

Add coriander powder, cumin powder, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, Kashmiri chilli powder, and cook until oil separates from the masala.

Step 5

Add red kidney beans along with all the liquid and stir well.

Step 6

Adjust salt and add garam masala powder. Lower the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with steamed rice.