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Rajma Madra (Himachali Kidney Bean Curry)

Rajma Madra (Himachali Kidney Bean Curry)

A comforting Himachali rajma madra made with kidney beans simmered in a gently spiced plant-based yoghurt gravy.

40 minPrep: 20 minCook: 20 minHimachaliVegan
madrarajmahimachali curry

Method

  1. 1

    Soak kidney beans overnight, rinse, and pressure cook with cinnamon, cloves, bay leaf, and cardamoms until soft.

  2. 2

    Whisk plant-based yoghurt until smooth and set aside.

  3. 3

    Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds and asafoetida.

  4. 4

    Lower heat and slowly add the yoghurt while stirring continuously.

  5. 5

    Cook gently until the yoghurt thickens and oil begins to separate.

  6. 6

    Add turmeric, ground cumin, garam masala, chilli powder, and coriander powder.

  7. 7

    Stir in cooked kidney beans and salt.

  8. 8

    Simmer on low for 10–12 minutes until thick and creamy.

  9. 9

    Serve hot with rice or roti.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp chilli powder
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tin kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 4-5 whole cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 green cardamoms
  • a pinch of asafoetida (optional)
  • 3 tbsp unsweetened plant yoghurt

Notes

  • For extra flavour, sauté onion and garlic before adding spices.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed basmati rice.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • Adjust chilli powder to taste for desired spiciness.

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