Rajma Masala

rajma_masala

Indian cuisine is known for its spicy and flavorsome dishes. One of the most popular dishes in Indian cuisine is Rajma Masala. It is a dish that originated in the northern region of India and is now enjoyed throughout the world.

Rajma Masala is a vegetarian dish made with kidney beans (rajma) cooked in a spiced tomato-based sauce. It is traditionally served with rice and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

The dish is not just delicious but also highly nutritious. Kidney beans are rich in protein and fiber, making it a perfect dish for vegetarians and vegans. The spices used in the dish not only add flavor but also offer several health benefits.

The recipe for Rajma Masala has been passed down from generation to generation and each family has its own unique variation. However, the basic ingredients of the dish remain the same.

To prepare Rajma Masala, you will need kidney beans, onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, green chilies, and a blend of Indian spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. You can also use a few unconventional ingredients such as coconut milk or cream for a creamier texture.

The first step in making Rajma Masala is to soak the beans overnight to soften them. The next day, the beans are boiled in a pressure cooker until they are tender. You can also use a slow cooker or a large pot to cook the beans.

Once the beans are cooked, the tomato-based sauce is prepared. The onions are caramelized in oil until they become golden brown. Then, the ginger, garlic, and green chilies are added and cooked for a few minutes. The tomatoes are then added and cooked until they become soft and pulpy. At this stage, the Indian spices are added, and the sauce is simmered for a few minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Finally, the cooked kidney beans are added to the sauce, and the dish is further cooked for a few minutes. The dish is garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and served hot with rice.

Rajma Masala is a perfect meal for any occasion. It can be served as a main course for lunch or dinner or as a side dish for a party. Additionally, it is easy to prepare, and you can adjust the level of spiciness according to your liking.

In conclusion, Rajma Masala is a delicious and nutritious dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its unique blend of Indian spices and kidney beans make it a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans. With its rich aroma and flavorsome taste, it is a dish that is sure to be loved by all.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rajma (kidney beans), soaked overnight
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • Coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

  1. Pressure cook the soaked rajma with 3 cups of water and salt until soft. Keep it aside for later use.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let it crackle.
  3. Add onion and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
  6. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
  7. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
  8. Add cooked rajma with the water in which it was cooked. Mix well.
  9. Cover and cook on low flame for 10-15 minutes, until the rajma masala thickens to a semi-gravy consistency.
  10. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or roti.