✅ Prep Time: 10 mins
✅ Cook Time: 45 mins
✅ Servings: 4

What is Rajma Masala?

Rajma Masala is a classic North Indian dish made with red kidney beans simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato-onion gravy, infused with aromatic spices. This hearty and protein-packed recipe is a staple in Punjabi households and pairs perfectly with steamed rice (Rajma Chawal) or Indian flatbreads like roti and naan.

If you’re looking for an easy Rajma recipe, this step-by-step guide will help you make a restaurant-style Rajma Masala at home!

Why You’ll Love This Rajma Recipe

✔️ High in protein and fiber
✔️ Gluten-free and vegetarian
✔️ Perfect comfort food
✔️ Easy one-pot recipe

Ingredients for Rajma Masala

Whole Spices

• 2 to 3 tbsp Oil
• 1 tsp Cumin seeds
• 2 to 3 Cloves
• 7 to 8 Peppercorns
• 1 Black cardamom
• 2 Bay leaves

Main Ingredients

• 1 Onion (finely chopped)
• 3 Tomatoes (pureed)
• 2 to 3 Green chilies (chopped)
• 1 cup Kidney beans (Rajma) (soaked overnight)
• 4 cups Water

Spices & Seasonings

• Salt to taste
• ¼ tsp Turmeric powder
• 2 tsp Coriander powder
• 1 tsp Cumin powder
• ½ tsp Red chili powder
• ½ tsp Garam masala
• 1 tsp Fenugreek leaves (Kasoori Methi)
• Fresh Cilantro (Coriander leaves) for garnish

How to Make Rajma Masala (Step-by-Step)

1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics

• Turn on Nutri-Pot (or Instant Pot) in Sauté Mode.
• Heat oil and add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, black cardamom, and green chilies.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 2 minutes.

2️⃣ Add Onion & Tomato Base

• Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
• Stir in salt, then pour in tomato puree and cook until oil separates.

3️⃣ Add Spices & Rajma

• Mix in turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and a pinch of asafoetida.
• Add pre-soaked kidney beans (Rajma) and stir well.

4️⃣ Cook in Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot

• Pour 4 cups of water, add salt to taste.
• Cancel Sauté mode, turn on Rajma mode and cook for 35 minutes.

5️⃣ Final Touch & Garnishing

• Release steam and open the lid.
• Stir in kasoori methi and garam masala.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

🔥 Enjoy Rajma Masala with:
✅ Steamed Basmati Rice (Rajma Chawal)
✅ Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice)
✅ Warm Roti or Naan

Pro Tips for the Best Rajma Masala

✔️ Always soak kidney beans overnight for faster cooking.
✔️ Use freshly ground spices for a rich flavor.
✔️ Simmer for an extra 10 minutes for a thicker consistency.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned kidney beans?

Yes! If using canned Rajma, reduce the cooking time to 15-20 minutes.

2. How to make Rajma without a pressure cooker?

You can cook soaked Rajma in a regular pot but it will take 1.5 to 2 hours to soften properly.

3. Can I store leftover Rajma Masala?

Yes! Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.

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