Kashmiri Rajma Masala Curry Recipe

rajma beans

🥗Healthier: black beans

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Pinto beans are often less expensive and have a similar texture.

fresh cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: dried cilantro

Dried cilantro is more economical and has a longer shelf life.

green chilies

🥗Healthier: bell peppers

💰Cheaper: jalapeños

Jalapeños provide a similar heat level at a lower cost.

garam masala

💰Cheaper: curry powder

Curry powder can be a more accessible alternative with a different flavor profile.

Wash the rajma and soak it in 3-4 cups of water for 6-8 hours.

Drain the water.

Add the rajma in an instant pot with 2 teaspoons salt and 3 cups of water.

Add 1 teaspoon fennel seeds powder, 1 teaspoon dry ginger powder, 2-3 cloves, and 1 inch piece of cinnamon stick.

Stir well and secure the lid of the instant pot.

Press PRESSURE COOK and set the timer to 15 minutes.

Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure manually and open the lid.

Heat 4 tablespoons mustard oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and ¼ teaspoon asafetida; let them crackle for 4-5 seconds.

Add ½ cup chopped onions and cook until they turn slightly brown (6-8 minutes), stirring frequently.

Add 2 teaspoons ginger paste and cook until onions are nicely browned.

Add 1 cup yogurt and cook for a minute.

Add 2 teaspoons coriander powder, ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, and 2 teaspoons Kashmiri red chili powder; cook until oil starts to separate from the sides of the pan.

Add the cooked rajma along with the water in which it was boiled to the pan and mash a few rajma pieces with the back of a ladle.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and cook for 10-12 minutes on low heat, stirring a few times while cooking.

Add ½ teaspoon garam masala powder and 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; mix well.

Check for salt and add more if needed.

Serve hot with steamed rice or saffron rice.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: