Rajma Masala, a popular Indian dish, originated in the Northern region. It features kidney beans cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy.
Rajma Masala Recipe
If you're craving a hearty and flavorful meal that celebrates the rich spices of Indian cuisine, look no further than Rajma Masala. This delectable vegetarian dish, made with red kidney beans and a blend of aromatic spices, is a favorite in North India. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Rajma Masala recipe is perfect for whipping up a satisfying meal for two. So, let's dive into the world of spices and create a culinary delight!
Ingredients:
For the Rajma:
For the Masala:
Instructions:
Soaking and Cooking the Rajma:
- Rinse the dried kidney beans thoroughly under running water.
- Place the kidney beans in a large bowl and cover them with enough water.
- Allow the beans to soak for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step ensures even cooking and softening of the beans.
- After soaking, drain the water and transfer the kidney beans to a pressure cooker.
- Add 4 cups of fresh water, along with the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and salt.
- Close the pressure cooker and cook the beans on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender. If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook them in a regular pot until soft.
Preparing the Masala:
- Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala. This indicates that the tomatoes are well-cooked.
- Reduce the heat to low and add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to combine the spices with the masala.
- Cook the masala on low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combining the Rajma and Masala:
- Once the masala is ready, add the cooked kidney beans along with the water from the pressure cooker.
- Stir everything together, ensuring the masala coats the beans evenly.
- Simmer the Rajma Masala on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed. The gravy should be thick and creamy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as per your preference.
Serving:
- Remove the Rajma Masala from heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice (cumin rice) and naan or roti for a complete meal.
- Accompany it with a side of plain yogurt or raita to balance the spiciness.
Conclusion:
Cooking Rajma Masala is an art that brings the flavors of India right to your plate. With its combination of protein-rich kidney beans and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is a wholesome and satisfying meal for two. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to explore new cuisines, Rajma Masala is a must-try recipe that will delight your taste buds. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to savor the essence of Indian cuisine with this scrumptious Rajma Masala recipe.
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 147kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6.2g10%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Sodium 490mg21%
- Total Carbohydrate 17g6%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 6g12%
- Calcium 60 mg
- Iron 2.7 mg
* * The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
