12 One-Pot Indian Meals for Lazy Evenings

6. Rajma Masala (Pressure-Cooker) — Kidney Beans Stew with Rice

Rajma is classic Punjabi comfort, and when you use canned kidney beans or a pressure cooker, it becomes a realistic one-pot dinner. If using canned beans, you can have rajma and steamed rice ready in about 30–40 minutes. The base is a tomato-onion gravy spiced with cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Difficulty: Beginner (with canned beans) to intermediate (dried beans). Key ingredients: kidney beans (canned or pre-soaked), onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic, garam masala. For lazy evenings, cook the masala first, then stir in beans and let everything simmer while you make a quick cucumber raita. Serve with rice or warm chapati. If you prefer deeper flavor, cook the gravy slightly longer; for speed, add a pinch of kasuri methi to finish and boost aroma without extra time.