Dried beans beat canned here because the cooking liquid becomes the gravy; soak them overnight and simmer until a few burst and thicken the sauce naturally. The onion-tomato masala needs to cook down until the oil separates before the beans go in.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook75 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineIndian
Cost$
VegetarianGluten-free
Contains dairy
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Kidney beans
Dried and soaked overnight; a few mashed against the pot thicken the gravy.
Can you make Rajma in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Rajma? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Rajma ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Rajma gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Rajma vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
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