About Rajma
Rajma (known as kidney beans in English) is a popular North Indian dish made with red kidney beans in a thick, spiced tomato gravy. This rajma dish recipe is a staple in Punjabi households and pairs perfectly with steamed rice (rajma chawal). The combination of rajma masala and aromatic spices creates a comforting, protein-rich meal.
This rajma simple recipe uses basic ingredients but delivers authentic flavors. Whether you're new to Indian cooking or an experienced chef, this guide will help you make perfect rajma curry every time.
Table of Contents
Types of Rajma (Kidney Beans)
- Chitra rajma (light red with spots)
- Red rajma (dark red kidney beans)
- Jammu rajma (smaller and darker)
- White rajma (cannellini beans)
How to Make Rajma: Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients for Rajma
Here’s a list to make delicious rajma masala:
- 1 cup dried rajma (or 2 cups canned)
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp rajma masala
- 1 tsp kitchen king masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 2 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak the Rajma: If using dried beans, soak overnight (8+ hours) in plenty of water.
- Cook the Rajma: Pressure cook soaked beans with 3 cups water for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Prepare the Gravy: Heat oil, sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Spices: Mix in tomato puree, rajma masala, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook until oil separates.
- Combine: Add cooked rajma with its water. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until gravy thickens.
- Finish: Sprinkle kitchen king masala and garnish with coriander.
Serving Tips for Rajma
- Serve rajma chawal (with steamed rice) for a complete protein meal
- Pair with veg pulao or roti for variation
- Garnish with onions, lemon wedges, and fresh coriander
- Try with a side of pickle or yogurt
Substitutes for Ingredients
- Rajma masala: Use chole chana masala or veg masala as alternative spice blends
- Dried rajma: Substitute with 2 cups canned kidney beans (reduce cooking time).
- Ghee: Use oil for vegan version
- Fresh tomatoes: Replace with 1/2 cup tomato puree
Nutritional Facts
Rajma is packed with plant-based protein and fiber. One serving of this rajma curry recipe provides:
- Calories: 250-300 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 8g
- Iron: 15% DV
- Low in fat and cholesterol-free
Beginner's Guide to Making Rajma
If you're new to how to cook rajma, follow these tips:
- Soak beans overnight for even cooking
- Use canned beans to save time (rinse well)
- Cook on low flame after adding spices to prevent burning
- Adjust consistency by adding water as needed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is rajma in English?
Rajma in English is called kidney beans - red, kidney-shaped legumes popular in Indian and Mexican cuisines.
2. How to cook rajma curry perfectly?
For perfect rajma curry recipe, soak beans overnight, cook until tender, and simmer the gravy until rich and creamy.
3. What spices are in rajma masala?
Rajma masala typically contains coriander, cumin, amchur, pepper, and other pure Indian spices.
4. Can I make rajma without soaking?
Yes, use canned beans or pressure cook unsoaked rajma for 30+ minutes with more water.
5. What to serve with rajma?
Traditional rajma chawal recipe pairs it with rice, or try with veg pulao recipe or roti.
6. How to make rajma masala at home?
Dry roast equal parts coriander, cumin, dry mango powder, and garam masala to make homemade rajma masala.
7. What are different kinds of rajma?
Common kinds of rajma include Chitra, Red Jammu, and White - each with slightly different textures.
Conclusion
This rajma recipe delivers authentic flavors with simple ingredients. Whether you prefer it as rajma chawal or with roti, this protein-packed dish is perfect for weeknight dinners. For more comforting Indian meals, try our collection of veg recipes featuring classics like pav bhaji recipe and chole chana recipe.
