Red Kidney Beans Recipe - Vegetarian Pakistani Dish

Red Kidney Beans

Red Kidney Beans Recipe - Vegetarian Pakistani Dish
Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 4 | Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Red Kidney Beans
Red Kidney Beans

Red kidney beans are a popular legume known for their rich, nutty flavor and hearty texture. This recipe for Red Kidney Beans is a classic Indian dish that is both delicious and nutritious.

History

Red kidney beans have been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to ancient times. This particular recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to it.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Wash the beans and boil them for 2 – 3 hours, or 0.5 hour in a pressure cooker.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare the masala by sautéing onions, garlic, ginger, and tomato, similar to Chicken Curry.
  3. Add the masala to the beans and continue cooking until most of the liquid evaporates and the beans are soft and fully cooked.
  4. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve.

Variations

  • Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
  • Use different spices such as cumin, coriander, or chili powder to customize the flavor to your liking.
  • For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the cooked beans before adding the masala.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

- Adding a pinch of baking soda to the cooking water can help soften the beans.

- Be sure to stir the beans occasionally while cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or naan bread. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the beans until they are soft and fully cooked is essential for this recipe.

- Sautéing the onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes before adding them to the beans helps develop the flavors of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned kidney beans instead of dried beans for a quicker cooking time.

- Substitute vegetable oil with ghee for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in a decorative bowl for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Red Kidney Beans recipe pairs well with a side of basmati rice, cucumber raita, and mango chutney. A glass of lassi or chai tea makes a refreshing beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of this Red Kidney Beans recipe contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Red kidney beans are a great source of carbohydrates, providing a steady source of energy. One serving of this recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This recipe is relatively low in fat, with only about 5 grams per serving. The oil used for cooking adds a small amount of healthy fats to the dish.

Proteins

Red kidney beans are a rich source of plant-based protein, with one serving of this recipe providing about 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Red kidney beans are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and folate. This recipe is a great way to incorporate these nutrients into your diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, making it suitable for most dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, this Red Kidney Beans recipe is a nutritious and balanced meal option, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Red Kidney Beans recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, it is a great option for a healthy and satisfying dinner. Enjoy this flavorful Indian dish with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold close to my heart. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small village of Munnar, nestled in the rolling hills of Kerala, India.

I remember it was a hot and humid day, the kind that makes you crave something comforting and hearty. My mother, who was an excellent cook, had been busy in the kitchen all day preparing our meals. As I sat outside on the veranda, fanning myself with a palm leaf, the aroma of spices wafted through the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Curious, I wandered into the kitchen to see what my mother was making. To my surprise, she was simmering a pot of red kidney beans on the stove, the rich red color of the beans forming a striking contrast against the golden turmeric and green curry leaves.

I watched as my mother added a blend of spices – cumin, coriander, garam masala, and a hint of cinnamon – to the pot, stirring gently as the flavors melded together. The smell was intoxicating, filling the small kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Intrigued, I asked my mother what she was making. She smiled and told me that she was making her famous red kidney beans curry, a recipe that had been passed down through generations in our family. She explained that it was a simple yet delicious dish, perfect for a hot day like today.

As I watched my mother cook, I couldn't help but be drawn to the pot of bubbling beans. The vibrant colors, the tantalizing aroma, the promise of a delicious meal – it was all too much for my young senses to resist.

After what felt like an eternity, my mother finally ladled out a steaming bowl of red kidney beans curry for me to try. I eagerly took a spoonful, blowing on it to cool it down before taking a hesitant bite.

The moment the flavors exploded on my tongue, I knew I had discovered something special. The earthy richness of the beans, the warmth of the spices, the subtle sweetness of the coconut milk – it was a symphony of flavors that danced across my taste buds.

From that day on, I was hooked. I begged my mother to teach me how to make the red kidney beans curry, and she gladly obliged. I watched her every move, memorizing the steps, the ingredients, the timing.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I added extra garlic for a bit of bite, a pinch of chili powder for some heat, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I shared the recipe with my own children. They too fell in love with the dish, requesting it for dinner on a regular basis.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells of spices and simmering beans, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. This recipe, passed down from mother to daughter, has become a cherished tradition in our family.

And as I ladle out bowls of red kidney beans curry for my grandchildren to try, I can only hope that they too will come to love this dish as much as I do. For me, this recipe is more than just a simple curry – it's a taste of home, a connection to my roots, a piece of my identity.

So as I stir the pot, savoring the familiar smells and flavors, I am filled with gratitude for this humble dish that has brought so much joy and comfort to my family over the years. And I know that as long as I have this recipe, I will always have a piece of my heritage to pass on to the next generation.

Categories

| Curry Recipes | Onion Recipes | Pakistani Recipes | Pakistani Vegetarian | Red Kidney Bean Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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