Rajma Royale

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rajma (kidney beans), soaked overnight
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2-3 green chilies, slit (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1/2 teaspoon amchur powder (dry mango powder) or a squeeze of lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 3 cups water (for boiling rajma)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Rajma:

1. Soak the rajma overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2. Drain and rinse them. Pressure cook the rajma with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt for about 15-20 minutes, or until soft. (If using an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 30 minutes).
3. Once cooked, drain the excess water and set aside. Reserve the water to use later for the gravy.

2. Making the Gravy:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the bay leaf.
3. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil starts separating from the masala.
6. Now, add the dry spices—coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

3. Combining the Rajma and Gravy:

1. Add the cooked rajma to the gravy and mix well. Add some of the reserved water to adjust the consistency of the gravy as per your preference.
2. Simmer the curry on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Stir in garam masala and amchur powder (or lemon juice) in the final 5 minutes of cooking.

4. Garnishing and Serving:

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or chapati.

Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Rajma Gravy!