Scratch Rajmah, Curried Kidney Beans Recipe | Rajma Chawal | Healthy Indian Curry | Punjabi Recipes

rajma (kidney beans)

🥗Healthier: black beans

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Black beans are high in protein and fiber, while pinto beans are often less expensive.

rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: bulgur wheat

Quinoa is a complete protein, while bulgur wheat is often more affordable.

Start by making the tarka, which is the flavor infusion for the rajma.

Add 1 tablespoon of ghee to a small pot.

Add 1 teaspoon of whole cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 40 seconds.

Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 black cardamom pod, and 2 black cloves to the pot.

Add chopped onion and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

Add 1 heaping tablespoon of ground ginger and 1 heaping tablespoon of ground garlic to the onions.

Add green chilies to taste and cook until everything is well combined and aromatic.

Add 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1 tablespoon of amchur powder, salt to taste, and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste to the pot.

Stir everything together and add in the cooked kidney beans.

Bring the mixture to a boil before adding any water to adjust the consistency.

Once boiling, add boiled water slowly, about 1 cup at a time, until the desired thickness is reached.

Increase the heat to bring it back to a boil, then cover the pot slightly ajar to release steam.

Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to break down the kidney beans for creaminess.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: