Best Easy Rajma Pulao Recipe

Rajma Pulao is a hearty North Indian kidney bean curry loaded with protein and fiber. This nutritious vegetarian dish is perfect for healthy family meals, meal prep, and freezer storage.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 355 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • basmati rice 1 cup
  • kidney beans (cooked, drained) 1.5 cups
  • onion (medium, sliced) 1 pieces
  • tomato (medium, diced) 1 pieces
  • ginger (fresh, minced) 1 tbsp
  • garlic (minced) 2 cloves
  • green peas (fresh or frozen) 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • vegetable oil 2 tbsp
  • cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
  • coriander powder 1 tsp
  • garam masala 1 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • water 2 cups
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 59 g 66%
Protein 12 g 13%
Fat 6 g 15%
Serving size 300g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak for 20 minutes. Drain well before using.

  2. 2

    In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, let them sizzle for 30 seconds, then add the sliced onion. Sauté, stirring, until onions are golden brown (about 6 minutes).

  3. 3

    Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook until they soften and oil starts to separate (about 5 minutes), maintaining medium heat throughout.

  4. 4

    Mix in turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Add green peas and cooked kidney beans, stirring gently to coat everything with spices.

  5. 5

    Add the soaked, drained rice and 2 cups water. Stir once gently, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer undisturbed for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.

  6. 6

    Turn off the heat. Let the pulao rest covered for 10 minutes before opening the lid. Fluff with a fork and sprinkle garam masala on top before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Best Easy Rajma Pulao Recipe?
The standout ingredient in this recipe is kidney beans, which contribute a hearty texture, signature flavor, and a protein- and fiber-rich profile that defines Rajma Pulao as a nutritious vegetarian meal.
Q. How can I prevent the rice from becoming mushy or overcooked in Rajma Pulao?
To avoid mushy rice, always soak and drain the basmati rice, use a tight-fitting lid, and simmer on low heat without stirring until the water is fully absorbed. Letting the pulao rest for 10 minutes after cooking also helps maintain each grain’s structure and prevents overcooking.
Q. What's the ideal rice-to-water ratio and cooking time for perfect Rajma Pulao texture?
For 1 cup of basmati rice, using 2 cups of water and simmering covered on low heat for about 18–20 minutes creates fluffy, separate grains. Resting afterward is essential for optimal texture.
Q. How nutritious is this Rajma Pulao per serving?
Each 300g serving of this Rajma Pulao contains 355 kcal, with approximately 59g carbohydrates (66% of total energy), 12g protein (13%), and 6g fat (15%). It offers balanced energy and a good plant-based protein boost.
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