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rajma recipe

Healthy Rajma Recipe

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A comforting and nutritious rajma recipe made with soft red kidney beans, balanced spices, and a naturally thick gravy. This healthy meal is filling, protein-rich, and perfect for everyday home cooking.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Soaking Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried red kidney beans (rajma)
  • 3 cups water (for pressure cooking)
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)
  • 2 medium tomatoes, blended into a smooth puree (about 1 cup)
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • tsp coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Rinse the dried rajma thoroughly and soak in plenty of water for 8 to 10 hours. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
  2. Heat oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and lightly golden. Avoid browning too much.
  4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add blended tomato puree and cook, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and oil releases slightly.
  6. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
  7. Add soaked rajma and 3 cups of water. Stir and close the pressure cooker lid.
  8. Pressure cook on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes (or 4 to 5 whistles) until the beans are soft and easy to mash.
  9. Open the lid once pressure releases naturally. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  10. Lightly mash a few beans to thicken the gravy naturally.
  11. Add garam masala, mix gently, and turn off the heat.
  12. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 6gFiber: 12g

Notes

  • Always use fresh rajma beans for best texture.
  • If the gravy is too thin, simmer a few extra minutes.
  • For a lighter version, reduce oil to 2 teaspoons.
  • Canned rajma can be used in a pinch, but reduce cooking time significantly.

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