Rajma Masala Curry Recipe

Rajma Masala Curry recipe - A Hearty North Indian Delight

Rajma Masala Curry is on one of most loved comfort foods in North Indian households. This proyein rich dish is made with red kidney beans cooked in a thick, flavorful onion tomato gravy and a blend of aromatic spices. Served with hot steamed rice, it's popularly known as "Rajma Chawal" a wholesome and satisfying meal enjoyed by families across generations.

Ingredients:

For Soaking & Boiling Rajma:

1 cup rajma (red kidney beans)

3 cups water (for soaking)

3 cups water (for pressure cooking)

1 tbsp salt

For Masala Gravy:

2 tbsp oil or ghee

1 bay leaf

1 inch cinnamon stick

2 green cardamoms

1 large onion (finely chopped)

2 medium tomatoes (pureed)

1 tbsp ginger garlic paste

2 green chilies (slit)

1 tbsp cumin seeds

1/2 tbsp turmeric powder

1 tbsp red chili powder

1 tbsp coriander powder

1 tbsp garam masala

1/2 tbsp cumin powder

Salt to teste

Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1 : Soak & Cook Rajma

1. Wash the rajma thoroughly and soak them in water overnight (8-10 hours)

2. Drain the water and transfer the soaked rajma into a pressure cooker.

3. Add 3 cups of fresh water and 1 tbsp salt. Pressure cook for 15-18 whistles (about 30-35 minutes) until the beans turn soft and mashable.

Step 2 : Prepare the Masala Base

1. Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cardamoms.

2. Once they splutter, and onions and saute till golden brown.

3. Aginger garlic paste and slit green chilies. Fry for 1-2 minutes.

4. Mix in the tomato puree and cook till the oil separates from the masala.

5. Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for 2 minutes.

Step 3 : Combinr Rajma with Masala

1. Add the cooked rajma along with its stock (cooking water) to the masala.

2. Stir well and mash a few beans with the back of a spoon to thicken the gravy.

3. Cover and iimmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors blends beautifully.

Step 4 : Finish & Garnish

1. Sprinkle garam masala and mix well.

2. Add cream for richness (optional)

3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestion:

Rajma Chawal : The classic combination serve hot rajma masala with steamed basmati rice.

With Roti/Naan : It pairs wonderfully with butter naan, paratha, or chapati.

Add a side of sliced onion, green chutney, or papad for a complete North Indian meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rajma Masala

1. Always soak rajma overnight for even cooking.

2. Cooking in the same stock enhances flavor.

3. Mash some rajma while simmering to get a creamy, restaurant style texture.

4. Adjust spices and chili as per taste preference.

Nutrition (per serving, approx) :

1. Calories: 240 kcal

2. Protein: 11g

3. Carbohydrates: 35g

4. Fiber: 9g

5. Fat: 6g

Rajma Masala Curry is not just food, it's nostalgia and warmth served in a bowl. A dish that unites families, reminds many of their childhood sundays, and continues to be a soul satisfying delicacy.