Punjabi-Style Rajma Rice Recipe: A Delicious Comfort Food

Rajma Rice, a beloved dish in Punjabi households, is a comforting, wholesome, and flavorful meal that brings together spiced kidney beans (rajma) and rice. Known for its rich, aromatic gravy, this Punjabi dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it a go-to choice for many families. In this article, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Rajma Rice, the Punjabi way!

Ingredients for Rajma (Kidney Bean Curry)

Before we begin, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this hearty dish:

For the Rajma:

1 cup of rajma (kidney beans) soaked overnight
2 medium onions, finely chopped
3 medium tomatoes, pureed
2 green chilies, slit
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala powder
2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
4 cups of water (for cooking the rajma)

For the Rice:

1 cup of basmati rice
2 cups of water
A pinch of salt
1 teaspoon of ghee (optional for flavor)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Punjabi Rajma Rice

Step 1: Preparing the Rajma (Kidney Beans)

Start by rinsing the soaked rajma thoroughly. After soaking them overnight, the beans will soften, reducing cooking time.
Add the soaked beans to a pressure cooker along with 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5-6 whistles on medium heat until the rajma is tender. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can also use an Instant Pot or a regular pan (though it will take longer).

Step 2: Sautéing the Base Masala

Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan or wok.
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Next, toss in the bay leaf and the ginger-garlic paste, sautéing until the raw smell disappears.
Add finely chopped onions and green chilies, cooking until the onions turn golden brown.
Pour in the tomato puree and cook this mixture until the oil separates from the masala. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the gravy.

Step 3: Spicing It Up

Once the tomatoes are well cooked, sprinkle in turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir this well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the spices blend into the mixture.
Now, add the cooked rajma along with the water in which it was boiled. This water has a lot of flavor from the beans, so don’t discard it!

Step 4: Simmering the Rajma

Let the rajma cook in the spiced masala on low heat for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and mash some of the rajma beans to thicken the gravy. The longer you let it simmer, the richer the taste becomes.
Adjust salt to taste and finish by adding garam masala for that signature Punjabi aroma.

Step 5: Cooking the Perfect Basmati Rice

While your rajma is simmering, wash the basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of ghee for extra flavor.
Add the washed rice and cook on medium heat until the water is fully absorbed and the rice grains are fluffy.

Step 6: Serving the Rajma Rice

Once both the rajma and rice are ready, serve them hot! Garnish your rajma with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness.
You can pair this with sliced onions, a wedge of lemon, or even a dollop of yogurt on the side for an authentic Punjabi experience.

Tips for Perfect Rajma Rice

Soaking the Rajma: Always soak the kidney beans overnight. This reduces the cooking time and makes them easier to digest.
Simmering is Key: Don’t rush through the simmering process. Letting the rajma cook slowly ensures that the flavors meld beautifully together.
Adjusting Spice Levels: You can modify the spice levels to your liking. Reduce the chili powder or omit the green chilies for a milder version.

Why Rajma Rice is a Popular Punjabi Dish

Rajma Rice is not just about taste; it’s about comfort. In Punjabi households, this dish is synonymous with family meals and special Sunday lunches. The earthy flavor of kidney beans paired with aromatic rice makes it a complete meal that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It’s also a vegetarian delight that is perfect for those who love hearty meals without meat.

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