Rajma Masala (Kidney Bean Curry) Recipe – Indian Special
Rajma Masala is a comforting and hearty North Indian kidney bean curry cooked in a flavorful tomato-onion gravy infused with warm Indian spices. Slow-simmered rajma beans absorb the rich masala, creating a thick, satisfying curry that is both nourishing and deeply aromatic. A staple home-style vegetarian dish, rajma masala is best enjoyed with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or soft rotis for a wholesome and soulful Indian meal.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time40 min
- Total Time50 min
Rajma Masala (Kidney Bean Curry) Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried kidney beans (or 2 cups cooked/canned)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Rajma Masala (Kidney Bean Curry) Instructions:
Soak dried kidney beans overnight and pressure cook until soft.
Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
Stir in tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
Cook the masala for 2–3 minutes.
Add cooked kidney beans and mix well.
Pour in water and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Stir occasionally to thicken the gravy.
Finish with garam masala and mix gently.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
Recipe Notes :
Soak dried kidney beans overnight to ensure even cooking and better digestion.
Pressure cooking the beans until very soft gives rajma its signature creamy texture.
Cooking the onions until deeply golden adds depth and richness to the curry base.
Allow the tomato masala to release oil before adding spices for maximum flavor.
Simmering the curry longer enhances thickness and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
