Rajma, a quintessential North Indian dish, is a comforting, aromatic kidney bean curry that warms the soul with each spoonful. Its rich sauce, made from tomatoes and a blend of spices, envelopes the tender beans, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The aroma of the simmering spices fills the kitchen, promising a culinary journey to the heart of India. The dish's deep, vibrant red hue is a feast for the eyes, while the complex flavors and creamy texture make each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

Serving Size

This recipe serves 4.

From Your Pantry

• 2 cups dried Kidney Beans, soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 1 large Onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
• 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
• 4 cups Water

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• 1 can (14 ounces) Crushed Tomatoes
• Fresh Cilantro, for garnish
• Edible Flowers, for garnish (optional)
• Artisanal Bread, for serving

Preparation

1. Rinse the soaked kidney beans and drain. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and bay leaves, sautéing until they begin to sputter.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Mix in the garam masala, coriander powder, turmeric, and salt, cooking for a few seconds before adding the tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes until the mixture becomes aromatic.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the kidney beans and water, then bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove bay leaves before serving.

Expert Tips

• Soaking the kidney beans overnight significantly reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest.
• For a creamier texture, lightly mash some of the beans towards the end of cooking.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this reimagined Rajma in a deep, elegant bowl, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and edible flowers for a touch of modern sophistication. Accompany it with slices of warm, crusty artisanal bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad or a simple side of steamed basmati rice.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 13g
• Allergens: Kidney Beans

We encourage you to share this modern take on a classic dish with friends and family. Feel free to experiment with different spices or additions to make this recipe uniquely yours. Cooking is a journey of discovery, and we hope this reimagined Rajma inspires you to explore new flavors and techniques in your kitchen.