Rajma/Razma/ Laal Lobia/राजमा or Kidney Beans is a popular dish in Northern states in India as well as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal. It is believed that best quality of Rajma is grown in the north states and mountains. Rajma chawal is a popular dish that has been eaten in Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and other north states.

Rajma Chawal is a one-pot wholesome 100% plant based and gluten-free that flavor packed delicious rajma recipe. Not only this but there are many rajma benefits that includes high in fiber, folate and magnesium, good source in protein, anti-cancer, improves blood sugar level and high in folic acid that skin health.

5 Types of Rajma | Red/lal Rajma, Jammu Rajma, Chitra Rajma

There are mainly two types of Rajma that are lal rajma and chitra rajma. The best quality rajma is from Bhaderwah valley of Jammu and Kashmir in India.

Red rajma | Type of Rajma in India 

Also known as kidney beans, red rajma is a good source of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.

It’s a good choice for vegetarians and people who want to increase their protein intake.

Red rajma has a low glycemic index, which means it doesn’t raise blood glucose levels.

Jammu rajma | Type of Rajma in India 

Known for its rich nutrients and tender texture, Jammu rajma is often considered one of the healthiest types of rajma.

Bhaderwah rajma | Best Quality of Rajma in India

Rich in vitamins B6, C, folate (B9), and vitamin K, which are important for blood clotting, metabolism, energy, DNA synthesis, and immunity.

Chitra Rajma/Pinto Beans | Type of Rajma in India 

Chitra Rajma is light brown in colour with red dotted or lines on it, mostly harvested in the Indian Himalayan region of Jammu and Kasmir.

Kashmiri rajma and Chitra rajma are both types of red kidney beans that are high in protein and fibre. Chitra rajma is a type of rajma that is commonly used in Kashmiri cuisine. Even, Rajma Chawal is the favourite and popular dish of people in Jammu and Punjab.

Joshimath Rajma | A Nutritious Gift from the High Hills of Uttarakhand

A well-known variety of kidney bean grown in Uttarakhand. The high altitude and climate conditions in Joshimath make it ideal for growing rajma.

Rajma Recipe | Rajma Chawal Recipe 

Jammu-Style Rajma Chawal Recipe

Prep Time: 8 hours (soaking) + 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients For Rajma chawal:

• 1 cup Jammu Rajma (red kidney beans) (soaked overnight)
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp mustard oil (or ghee for richer flavour)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 4-5 black peppercorns
• 1-2 small sticks of cinnamon
• 2-3 cloves
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp amchur (dry mango powder) or 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups water

For Rajma Chawal (Rice):

• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice, washed and soaked for 20 minutes
• 3 cups water
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp ghee (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Rajma Chawal Recipe:

1. Drain the soaked rajma and rinse well. Pressure cook it with 4 cups of water and a little salt for 6-8 whistles (or until soft). Set aside with the cooking liquid.
2. Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until it starts to smoke slightly. Lower the heat.
3. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, peppercorns, cinnamon, and cloves. Sauté until aromatic.
4. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
5. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the oil separates.
7. Add the cooked rajma along with its water. Simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Adjust salt and add garam masala and amchur powder. Let it simmer for 5 more minutes.

You can watch special jammu style rajma chawal by Chef Ranveer Brar

Rajma Benefits | A Bowl of protein, fiber, and minerals.

Heart health: Rajma’s fiber, antioxidants, and magnesium can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure as per the article on Hindustan Times.

Weight management: Rajma’s high protein and fibre content can help you feel full, which can help with weight management.

Digestion: It has fiber content that can help with digestion and prevent constipation.

Bone health: It contains calcium, which can help maintain bone health.

Blood sugar: It is high fiber content and low glycemic index can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Muscle health: It is protein content can help support muscle health and energy levels.

Antioxidants: It has antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress and support heart health.

Minerals: It contains essential minerals like iron, folate, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus.

What kind of Gravy used in Rajma?

Rajma gravy is a creamy, spiced curry made with a masala gravy of sautéed onions, tomatoes, spices, and sometimes cream. Rajma gravy is made with a variety of spices, including cumin seeds, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala and give a charcoal the dhungar method to add the unique smokey flavour.

In this blog, explore everything you need to know about Rajma Chawal—its fascinating origin, the different types of rajma, the special gravy that makes it irresistible, and the incredible benefits of including it in your diet. Packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and minerals, Rajma Chawal has earned its place as a comfort food for millions across India.

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