Kashmiri Rajma is a delicious dish made with red kidney beans in a rich onion and tomato gravy, flavored with Kashmiri spices. Typically served with rice, it’s a comforting and hearty meal from Kashmiri cuisine.
To start, drain the soaked kidney beans and rinse them well. This helps get rid of extra starch and makes sure the beans cook evenly.
Saute the Aromatics
Next, heat some vegetable oil in a big pot over medium heat.
Then, add finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown. This step is important because it adds a lot of flavor, so don’t rush it!
After that, mix in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Cook the Spices
Once the onions are golden, add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate. This shows that the tomato base is ready.
Then, stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, ground fennel seeds, ground saffron, and garam masala. Mix everything well and cook for 5 minutes to let the spices soak into the tomato base.
Combine Beans and Broth
After that, add the drained kidney beans to the pot. Pour in water or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
Then, lower the heat and let the beans simmer for 30-45 minutes on the stovetop or 20-30 minutes in an Instant Pot. The beans should be soft, and the gravy will get thick.
Garnish and Serve
Finally, taste and adjust the salt as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Notes
Variations
Vegetarian Adaptations: You can add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or carrots for a healthier, veggie-packed version!
Non-Vegetarian Influences: For a heartier dish, try adding lamb or chicken to the Rajma for a rich, meaty twist!
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you like more heat, feel free to add extra chili! While Kashmiri Rajma is usually mild, it’s easy to customize to your taste.
Tips for Making Perfect Kashmiri Rajma
Soaking & Cooking Time: First, soak the Rajma overnight for the best texture and make sure to cook it long enough for soft, tender beans.Balance of Spices: Next, balance the spices carefully—don’t overdo any one spice to keep the flavors smooth and aromatic.Use Fresh Spices: Lastly, always use fresh spices for the best, authentic Kashmiri taste! Freshness makes all the difference!
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Kashmiri Rajma Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
1250
% Daily Value*
Fat
30
g
46
%
Saturated Fat
4
g
25
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
16
g
Sodium
600
mg
26
%
Potassium
1600
mg
46
%
Carbohydrates
210
g
70
%
Fiber
35
g
146
%
Sugar
8
g
9
%
Protein
60
g
120
%
Vitamin A
1200
IU
24
%
Vitamin B1
0.5
mg
33
%
Vitamin B2
0.4
mg
24
%
Vitamin B3
5
mg
25
%
Vitamin B5
0.6
mg
6
%
Vitamin B6
0.5
mg
25
%
Vitamin C
25
mg
30
%
Vitamin E
2
mg
13
%
Vitamin K
8
µg
8
%
Calcium
120
mg
12
%
Iron
10
mg
56
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.