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Rajma Masala (Punjabi Kidney Bean Curry)

Rajma Masala (Punjabi Kidney Bean Curry)

Punjabi-style rajma masala made with tender kidney beans simmered in a rich onion-tomato gravy. A comforting classic perfect with rice or roti.

30 minPrep: 10 minCook: 20 minNorth IndianVegan
rajmarajma masalakidney bean curry

Method

  1. 1

    Soak kidney beans overnight, then rinse well.

  2. 2

    Pressure cook beans with water until very soft and tender.

  3. 3

    Crush ginger, garlic, and chillies into a paste.

  4. 4

    Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.

  5. 5

    Add onions and cook until golden and caramelised.

  6. 6

    Add ginger-garlic-chilli paste and sauté briefly.

  7. 7

    Add tomatoes and cook until soft and jammy.

  8. 8

    Stir in turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.

  9. 9

    Cook until the masala thickens and oil separates.

  10. 10

    Add cooked beans and water, then simmer for 10–15 minutes.

  11. 11

    Mash a few beans to thicken the gravy.

  12. 12

    Finish with kasuri methi and oat cream if using.

  13. 13

    Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp chilli powder
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 100 ml oat cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
  • 1 tin kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 green chillies, finely chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • a pinch of asafoetida (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp kasuri methi (optional)

Notes

  • Soaking beans overnight helps reduce cooking time.
  • Adjust chilli powder according to your spice preference.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water if needed.

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