Rajma Masala

Rajma Masala Recipe (Kidney Bean Curry)

Ingredients:

• Rajma (Kidney beans): 1 cup (soaked overnight or for 8-10 hours)
• Onion: 2 medium-sized, finely chopped
• Tomatoes: 3 medium-sized, pureed
• Garlic paste: 2 teaspoons
• Ginger paste: 1 teaspoon
• Green chilies: 1-2, finely chopped (optional)
• Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
• Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon
• Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
• Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves): 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Salt: to taste
• Cooking oil or ghee: 3 tablespoons
• Fresh coriander leaves: for garnish
• Water: 3-4 cups (for boiling rajma)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Drain the soaked rajma and rinse them under running water.
   • Cook the rajma in a pressure cooker with 3-4 cups of water and a pinch of salt for 6-8 whistles on medium heat. Alternatively, cook in a pot until the beans are soft and tender (may take longer).
2. Making the Masala Base:
   • Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
   • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
   • Add garlic and ginger paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
   • Stir in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
3. Adding Spices:
   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Combining Rajma and Masala:
   • Add the cooked rajma along with the water it was boiled in to the masala mixture. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
   • Mix well and simmer for 15-20 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to blend and the curry to thicken.
5. Final Touches:
   • Add garam masala and crush kasuri methi (if using) into the curry. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
   • Adjust salt as needed.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Enjoy the hearty and flavorful Rajma Masala, a comfort food favorite!