One Pot Punjabi Rajma Masala Recipe in Preethi Electric Pressure Cooker
Punjabi Rajma Masala is an iconic dish that hails from North India, widely regarded as one of the most comforting meals you can enjoy. Known for its rich and flavorful gravy, it is a perfect blend of hearty kidney beans simmered in a delicious tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices and herbs. A bowl of this comforting dish paired with steamed basmati rice or phulka is a beloved combination that resonates deeply with Punjabi home-cooking traditions. This simple, yet flavorful dish is often a staple in households across the North of India and is commonly available in local restaurants. When you travel through the heart of India, you are likely to see this classic combination of Rajma Chawal (Kidney Beans with Rice) featured on the menu.
In this recipe, we use the convenience of a Preethi Electric Pressure Cooker to make cooking this beloved dish faster and easier, while ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully. This one-pot dish is easy to prepare and brings together all the traditional flavors that make Rajma Masala an authentic North Indian favorite.
Recipe Details
| Cuisine | North Indian |
|---|---|
| Course | Main Course |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 90 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 45 minutes |
Ingredients for Punjabi Rajma Masala
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rajma (Large Kidney Beans) | 1 cup |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1 inch piece |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 2 cloves |
| Onion (roughly chopped) | 1 large |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1/2 cup |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera), roasted | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom Pods (Elaichi) | 4 pods |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 2-inch piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Butter (Salted) | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania), chopped | 1 small bunch |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
-
Soak the Rajma:
Begin by soaking the rajma (large kidney beans) in about 3 cups of water. Let them soak for 8 to 10 hours, or overnight if you prefer. -
Prepare the Preethi Electric Pressure Cooker:
Turn on your Preethi Electric Pressure Cooker and set it to saute mode. Let it heat up. -
Saute the Aromatics:
Once the cooker is heated, add 1 teaspoon of oil to the cooker. To the hot oil, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Saute for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions turn golden and soft. -
Add the Tomato Puree and Spices:
Stir in the homemade tomato puree, followed by the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and garam masala powder. Add the cardamom pods and cinnamon stick. Saute everything together for another 2 minutes to let the spices bloom and infuse the mixture. -
Add the Soaked Rajma and Water:
Now, add the soaked rajma along with the soaking water. If necessary, add more water to ensure the beans are fully submerged. There should be at least 1 inch of water above the rajma to allow proper cooking. Stir everything gently. -
Cook the Rajma:
Close the lid of the Preethi Electric Pressure Cooker. Set the cooker to Rajma Mode (or select the suitable setting for beans). Let the pressure cooker cook the rajma. Once the cooking is complete, the cooker will automatically switch to Keep Warm Mode. -
Natural Pressure Release:
Allow the pressure to release naturally. The rajma will continue to cook inside the cooker as the pressure releases, and the beans will become tender. -
Check for Doneness:
After the pressure has released, open the cooker. Check the beans by pressing a few between your fingers. They should mash easily, indicating that the rajma is fully cooked. -
Final Seasoning:
Taste the dish and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference. Stir in the chopped coriander leaves to give the dish a fresh, vibrant flavor. -
Serve:
Serve your Punjabi Rajma Masala hot with steamed Basmati Rice or phulka (Indian flatbread) for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Enjoy this North Indian comfort food thatโs packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
Serving Suggestions:
- Rajma Chawal (Kidney Beans with Rice): The most popular way to serve this dish is with a side of steamed basmati rice. The rich and hearty beans complement the soft, fluffy rice perfectly.
- Aloo Parwal Sabzi (Potato & Pointed Gourd Curry): A simple side of this flavorful vegetable curry can be an excellent addition to make your meal complete.
- Raita or Pickle: A cool, tangy raita or a spicy pickle can also make a wonderful accompaniment to balance the flavors of the rajma masala.
Tips for Perfect Rajma Masala:
- Soaking Rajma: Soaking the kidney beans is essential to ensure they cook evenly and become soft. If you’re in a hurry, you can soak them for 2 hours in hot water, though overnight soaking works best for optimal texture.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: You can adjust the level of spices to suit your taste. For a milder version, reduce the amount of garam masala or cumin powder.
- Tomato Puree: Homemade tomato puree gives a fresher and richer flavor compared to store-bought versions. If using store-bought, make sure itโs high-quality and free from preservatives.
This Punjabi Rajma Masala cooked in a Preethi Electric Pressure Cooker is an easy and convenient way to enjoy this popular North Indian dish without compromising on taste. Itโs perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal with friends. The hearty flavors, infused with fragrant spices, are sure to leave everyone asking for more!
