Hearty Kidney-Bean Curry

Name: Hearty Kidney-Bean Curry (Punjabi Rajma Masala)
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon sunflower or canola oil; 1 teaspoon sunflower or canola oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 green chile, finely chopped; 1 tomato, finely chopped; 1 bay leaf, torn; 1-inch piece cinnamon stick, halved; ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder; 2 teaspoons cumin powder; ½ teaspoon red chili powder; 1 teaspoon garam masala powder; Kosher salt; 2 cups rajma (kidney beans), soaked for 8 hours, or overnight; 2 cups rajma (kidney beans), soaked for 8 hours, or overnight; 8 sprigs cilantro, finely chopped

Punjabi Rajma Masala

Preparation info

Yield:
4
servings

Difficulty
Easy

Appears in

Everyday Indian from Archana’s Kitchen

By Archana Doshi

Published 2026

About

A robust and hearty dish from Punjab, this Rajma Masala is prepared in a single pot for convenience without compromising on flavor. The tender kidney beans simmer in a spiced tomato gravy that warms the soul and brings back memories of lively family dinners.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon sunflower or canola oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1-

Asia
India
Punjab
Dinner
Main course
Vegan
Gluten-free

Method

Heat the oil on medium heat in the pressure cooker or electric multi-cooker; add the onion, ginger, garlic, and green chile, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion softens and turns a light golden color. Stir in the tomato, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, turmeric powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt, to taste. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until the tomatoes becom