How To Make Rajma Recipe

Rajma, or kidney beans, is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, particularly in the northern regions of India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Despite its deep integration into Indian culinary culture, its origins trace back to Central and South America, specifically Mexico and Guatemala. Here’s a detailed look at the history and evolution of rajma:

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Origins of Rajma

How To Make Rajma Recipe

• Central and South American Roots: Rajma, or kidney beans, were first cultivated in Central and South America over 7,000 years ago. They were a staple in the diets of indigenous peoples in Mexico and Guatemala39.
• Introduction to India: The kidney bean was brought to the Indian subcontinent during the colonial era, likely by Portuguese and Spanish traders who introduced it to Asia and Africa. It eventually made its way to India, where it became a staple in North Indian cuisine29.

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Adoption in Indian Cuisine

• Regional Popularity: Rajma gained immense popularity in the northern states of India, such as Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. It also became a staple in Nepal and Pakistan16.
• Cultural Integration: Over time, rajma was adapted to local tastes, with the addition of Indian spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. This transformed it into the rich, flavorful dish known as Rajma Masala or Rajma Chawal (kidney beans served with rice)18.

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Breakdown:

How To Make Rajma Recipe

• Soaking Rajma: 8 hours (overnight)
• Boiling Rajma: 15-20 minutes (in a pressure cooker, 5-6 whistles)
• Preparing Masala: 10-15 minutes
• Simmering Rajma with Masala: 10-15 minutes

If you forget to soak rajma, you can use a quick soak method:

1. Boil the rajma in hot water for 1 hour, then cook as usual.
2. Or use canned kidney beans (skip boiling) and make rajma in 30 minutes!

Here’s how you can make it at home.

Rajma Recipe (Kidney Bean Curry)

How To Make Rajma Recipe

Rajma is a popular North Indian dish made with red kidney beans cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy. Here’s how you can make it at home.

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Ingredients :

• 1 cup Rajma (red kidney beans)
• 3 cups water (for soaking and boiling)
• 2 large onions (finely chopped)
• 2 large tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1-2 green chilies (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
• 1 cup water (for gravy)
• 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, optional)

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Step by Step Instructions :

How To Make Rajma Recipe

1. Rinse 1 cup of rajma under running water.
2. Soak the rajma overnight (or for at least 8 hours) in 3 cups of water.
3. Drain the water and pressure cook the rajma with 3 cups of fresh water and a little salt for 15-20 minutes (or 5-6 whistles).
4. Once cooked, check if the beans are soft by pressing them between your fingers. They should be mashable but still hold their shape.

Step 2: Prepare the Masala

How To Make Rajma Recipe

5. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a pan.
6. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and let them crackle.
7. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
8. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, then sauté for a minute.
9. Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.

Step 3: Add Spices

10. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
11. Add 1 teaspoon garam masala and 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (crushed). Mix well.

Step 4: Cook Rajma with Masala

12. Add the boiled rajma along with its water into the masala mixture.
13. Stir well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes on low heat so the flavors blend.
14. Mash a few kidney beans with the back of the spoon to thicken the gravy.
15. Adjust water as needed to get the desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

16. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
17. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or roti.

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Tips for Perfect Rajma

How To Make Rajma Recipe

✔️ Soaking is key – Always soak rajma overnight for the best texture.
✔️ Simmering enhances flavors – The longer you simmer, the tastier it gets!
✔️ Mashing some beans makes the gravy thicker and more flavorful.

Enjoy your homemade Rajma Chawal! 😋🍛

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