One Pot Punjabi Rajma Masala Recipe – A Delicious North Indian Classic
When you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that’s rich in flavor and easy to make, look no further than One Pot Punjabi Rajma Masala. This simple yet hearty dish, originating from North India, features kidney beans cooked in a luscious, spiced gravy. It’s the perfect meal for lunch or dinner and pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making it a complete meal that’s satisfying, nutritious, and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this one-pot recipe will make your kitchen smell like an authentic Punjabi household. With the help of an electric pressure cooker, this dish comes together quickly, requiring only a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples.
Ingredients – What You Need for One Pot Punjabi Rajma Masala
| Ingredient | Quantity | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney beans (Rajma) | 1 cup | Soaked for 8-10 minutes |
| Fresh ginger | 1 inch | Finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Finely chopped |
| Onion | 1 medium-sized | Chopped |
| Tomato puree | 1/2 cup | |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tsp | |
| Cumin powder | 1 tsp | Roasted (dry roasted) |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tsp | |
| Green cardamom pods | 4 | |
| Cinnamon stick | 2-inch | |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | |
| Fresh coriander leaves | A few sprigs | For garnishing |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tsp | |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 90 Minutes
Total Time: 105 Minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
How to Make One Pot Punjabi Rajma Masala – Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rajma
Start by soaking the rajma (kidney beans) in 3 cups of water for about 8 to 10 minutes. This step softens the beans and helps them cook evenly. After soaking, drain the water, and set the beans aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Switch on the sauté mode of your electric pressure cooker (or any large pressure cooker). Add 1 tsp of oil to the pot and allow it to heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes or until the onions turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for the dish.
Step 3: Adding the Spices
Once the onions are golden, add tomato puree, turmeric powder, roasted cumin powder, garam masala powder, cardamom pods, and cinnamon sticks. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes. This helps the spices release their essential oils, infusing the gravy with a rich aroma.
Step 4: Cooking the Rajma
Now, add the soaked kidney beans along with the water to the cooker. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the beans are well-coated with the spice mixture. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set it to the Rajma/bean cooking mode or, if using a stovetop pressure cooker, cook for about 25-30 minutes on medium heat. Allow the pressure to release naturally after cooking.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the pressure has been released, open the cooker and give the Rajma Masala a good stir. The gravy should have thickened and the beans tender. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little water to achieve your desired consistency. Now, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter for extra richness, and check the seasoning. Add salt to taste.
Step 6: Garnishing and Serving
Garnish the One Pot Punjabi Rajma Masala with fresh chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with a side of steamed basmati rice and a refreshing mint onion kachumbar salad to complete your meal.
Serving Suggestions
Punjabi Rajma Masala is best enjoyed with steamed rice, a traditional pairing that soaks up the thick, flavorful gravy beautifully. To complement the dish, serve it with a side of mint onion kachumbar salad for a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the beans.
You can also serve it with naan, roti, or paratha for an authentic North Indian meal. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend feast with family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pot Convenience: This recipe is perfect for a no-fuss dinner. The entire meal is made in one pot, making cleanup easy.
- Hearty & Nutritious: Rajma is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making this dish filling and healthy.
- Bold Punjabi Flavors: The combination of ginger, garlic, and a mix of whole spices creates a deep, flavorful gravy that’s full of warmth.
- Quick & Easy: With the help of an electric pressure cooker, this dish cooks in no time, allowing you to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Potassium | 600mg |
| Vitamin A | 10% Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 12% Daily Value |
| Iron | 15% Daily Value |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Tips for Perfect Rajma Masala
- Soak Rajma Well: Soaking the beans for enough time ensures they cook evenly and become soft. If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker, but soaking them beforehand will give better results.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like a spicier dish, feel free to add green chilies or more garam masala according to your preference.
- Consistency of Gravy: You can adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less water, depending on how thick you like your curry.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly roasted cumin powder and garam masala elevate the flavor of this dish. If you have time, dry roast the spices before adding them to the dish.
Conclusion
One Pot Punjabi Rajma Masala is a quintessential comfort food, blending rich spices with creamy, tender beans. It’s a wholesome, filling meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a cozy weekend meal, this easy, one-pot recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it with family and friends, and let the warmth of Punjabi flavors fill your home.
