Grandma's Legendary Punjabi Rajma Masala : Taste Tradition

By Shobhna Jain | Posted on 6th Feb 2024 | English

06 Feb, (VNI) Transport yourself to my grandma's kitchen, where tales of Punjab mingle with the aroma of simmering spices. With a nod to our family's history—my grandfather's stint in Punjab—my grandma crafted a recipe that captured the essence of the region: Punjabi rajma. Learning it from a dear Punjabi friend, she mastered its flavors, even with her twist of omitting onion and garlic. Today, I present you her cherished recipe, brimming with tradition and love. Though we're sharing the version with onion and garlic, trust me, even without them, it's a culinary delight not to be missed

Punjabi Rajma Masala Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 cups dried kidney beans (rajma), soaked overnight
2 onions, finely chopped
3 tomatoes, pureed
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 green chilies, finely chopped
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon red deghi chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons pure ghee or oil
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Method :

Drain the soaked kidney beans and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
Heat oil in a large pan or pressure cooker over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
Now, add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.
Add the soaked kidney beans to the mixture along with enough water to cover them. If using a pressure cooker, add water accordingly and pressure cook for about 4-5 whistles until the beans are tender.
Once the beans are cooked, mash a 2 tbsp of boiled beans against the side of the pan to thicken the gravy. Season with salt according to your taste.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and savor it with a piping hot serving of rice.
Enjoy the irresistible flavors of this Punjabi rajma dish, and don't be surprised if it becomes an instant favorite among your family and friends. This hearty and soul-satisfying meal is a true embodiment of Punjabi hospitality and culinary excellence. Happy eating.