Rajma Masala, a hearty and flavorful North Indian kidney bean curry, is a comforting classic loved for its rich, spiced sauce and tender beans. This beloved dish is surprisingly versatile, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you're a seasoned Indian cook or a complete beginner, our recipe simplifies the traditional method, delivering restaurant-quality Rajma Masala without the fuss. Imagine succulent kidney beans simmered in a fragrant blend of onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and an array of warming spices.
Forget hours of simmering on the stovetop; this recipe utilizes the magic of the Instant Pot to drastically reduce cooking time. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring perfectly cooked rajma every time. Ready to experience the delicious simplicity of this Instant Pot Rajma Masala? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
Ingredients
- Rajma (kidney beans): 1 cup
- Oil: 3 tbsp
- Cinnamon stick: 1
- Bay leaf: 1
- Dry red chili: 1
- Cumin seeds: 1 tsp
- Red onion: 1 cup
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tbsp
- Tomatoes: 1 1/2 cups
- Coriander powder: 1 tsp
- Cumin powder: 1 tsp
- Red chili powder: 1 tsp
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 tsp
- Garam masala: 2-3 tsp
- Water: 2 1/2 cups
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves): 1 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Prepare Rajma
- Select the saute function on your Instant Pot. Add oil, cinnamon, bay leaf, red chili, and cumin seeds. Let it sizzle.
- Add chopped red onion and salt. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and chopped tomatoes. Sauté for a minute until tomatoes are mushy.
- Add the soaked and drained rajma beans.
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala.
- Add water and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 2. Pressure Cook the Rajma
- Close the lid, select pressure cook for 10 minutes on high pressure, and keep warm for 14-15 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally.
Step 3. Finish and Adjust
- Slightly mash the rajma for a thicker gravy. Add kasuri methi.
- Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with rice, paratha, roti, chapati, or millets.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Soaking rajma reduces cooking time, improves digestion, and enhances texture.
- Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use dried kidney beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need to soak them overnight and then pressure cook them for a longer time, around 40-45 minutes, before adding the masala.
2. What if my Instant Pot doesn't have a sauté function?
You can sauté the onions, ginger, and garlic in a separate pan on the stovetop before adding everything to the Instant Pot.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more chili powder or a few finely chopped green chilies to adjust the spice level to your preference.
This Instant Pot Rajma Masala recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort and time. Enjoy the rich, flavorful curry with rice, naan, or roti for a truly satisfying meal. We hope you'll try this recipe and share your delicious results with us!