Rajma Recipe| Kidney Beans Recipe

Kidney beans hold an important place in Indian cuisine, especially in North India, where it is considered a staple food. It is a popular comfort food and a common dish served during festivals, celebrations and family gatherings. Rajma is not only loved for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. It is a rich source of protein, which is essential for vegetarian diets in India. Additionally are easy to cook, and their versatility makes them an ideal ingredient for making a variety of dishes.

Health benefits of kidney beans

High in Protein: are a rich source of plant-based protein, making it a great alternative to meat for vegetarians and vegans.

Rich in Fiber: are rich in fiber, which helps promote digestion, maintain healthy bowel movements, and prevent constipation.

Lowers Cholesterol: The soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

Regulates blood sugar: have a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels, making it an ideal food for people with diabetes.

Good for bone health are rich in calcium and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

Reduces the risk of cancer: contain antioxidants and phytonutrients, which help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Rich in essential nutrients: s are a good source of several essential nutrients, including iron, potassium and folate, which are important for overall health and wellness.

Overall, adding kidney beans to your diet can provide a number of health benefits, making it an ideal ingredient for a healthy and balanced diet.

Rajma Masala Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Rajma (red kidney beans), soaked overnight
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 tsp ginger garlic paste
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala powder
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
• salt to taste
• 3 tbsp oil
• water as needed

Method:

1. Put the soaked kidney beans in a pressure cooker along with 4 cups of water and salt. Pressure cook for 5-6 whistles or till the beans are cooked.
2. Heat oil in a separate pan and add cumin seeds. When it starts spluttering, add finely chopped onion and fry till it turns golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add finely chopped tomatoes, green chilies, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder and salt to taste.
5. Cook the spice mixture until the oil separates.
6. Add the cooked kidney beans to the spice mixture and mix well.
7. Add water as required to adjust the consistency of the gravy.
8. Boil for 10-15 minutes or till the spices are well coated on the kidney beans.
9. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Rajma Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup kidney beans cooked and drained
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green chilli, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp chaat masala
• salt to taste

Method:

In a large mixing bowl, add cooked beans, cucumber, tomato and chopped onion.

Add finely chopped green chillies, coriander leaves, lemon juice, chaat masala and salt as per taste.

Toss well till all the ingredients are well mixed.

Serve cold as a healthy and nutritious salad.

Tips for cooking

Soak kidney beans overnight. Soaking overnight makes them easier to cook and shortens the cooking time. Soak in enough water to cover them completely.

Use a pressure cooker: A pressure cooker is the best way to cookquickly and evenly.

Use fresh ingredients: Use fresh and good quality onions, tomatoes and spices for best taste and flavour.

Roast the spices. Roasting the spices before adding them to the dish enhances their flavor and aroma.

Add salt at the end, add salt to the dish only after the kidney beans are cooked well. Adding salt in the beginning can make hard and difficult to cook.

Cook on low heat: After the kidney beans are cooked, cook them on low heat for some time so that the flavors get mixed well.