Every Punjabi household has its own version of rajma, and nothing says comfort food like this Instant Pot Rajma Recipe. It’s what you cook on a day you’re tired, couldn’t be bothered to cook too much, and are pretty much out of ideas anyway.
Why You’ll Love These Instant Pot Kidney Beans
- Hands-Off Cooking. The Instant Pot takes care of the long simmering time traditionally needed for rajma, giving you tender, flavorful beans with minimal effort.
- Deep, Comforting Flavor . Warm spices, tomatoes, and aromatics create a rich gravy that tastes like it simmered all day.
- Protein-Packed & Hearty . Kidney beans make this a naturally filling vegetarian meal that keeps you satisfied.
- Budget-Friendly . Made with pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients, it’s an affordable weeknight option.
This Pressure Cooker Indian Rajma Kidney Beans recipe is a classic Indian comfort food. Hearty, filling and delicious, this simple kidney beans recipe truly can’t be beat.
Why Make Rajma In The Instant Pot?
When you add in the ease of making it in your Instant Pot or pressure cooker and you have the perfect dinner dish . This Rajma Chawal dish is made considerably easier if you already have the Onion Masala on hand, but I’ve written this recipe in a way that you don’t have to have it.
We’re going to make the masala and the beans simultaneously by using Pot-In-Pot cooking , as we did when we did the PIP Chana and Rice cooking . This allows you to make a complete Rajma Masala recipe all in a single Instant Pot, saving you time and dirtying less dishes, because #ruthlesseffefficiency.
Is Rajma Good For Weight Loss?
Though this vegan kidney bean recipe is far from low carb and I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for anybody living a keto lifestyle , some suggest that it can be used to assist in weight loss. Because of the high protein and fiber content, it can keep you full longer while aiding in digestive health, which in turn can help you eat less during the day.
Are Rajma And Red Kidney Beans The Same Thing?
Rajma (sometimes spelled as “Rajmah”) quite literally means kidney beans. However, when one refers to Rajmah they are referring to this Indian kidney bean recipe that consists of kidney beans and a thick tomato-based gravy mixed with Indian spices. It’s a classic Punjabi comfort food that’s oh so delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon Oil -Provides the fat needed to sauté the aromatics, bloom the spices, and build the flavorful base of the rajma gravy.
- 1.5 cups Onion - Creates body and sweetness in the masala. As the onions cook down, they thicken the gravy and provide depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger - Adds warmth and brightness. Ginger helps balance the richness of the beans and enhances the aromatic profile of the curry.
- 1 tablespoon Garlic - Introduces a savory backbone to the dish. Garlic intensifies the overall flavor and supports the earthy spices.
- 1 cup Canned Tomatoes - Supplies acidity and sweetness. Tomatoes contribute to the classic thick rajma gravy and help break down the beans during pressure cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper - Brings heat and enhances the warm spice profile. You can adjust it to make the dish mild or spicy.
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric - Adds a mild earthiness and gives the dish its golden undertone. Turmeric also enhances depth and aromatic complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala - A finishing spice blend that provides the signature Indian warmth and sweetness. It rounds out the dish with a fragrant, well-balanced finish.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin - Adds a warm, earthy flavor essential to North Indian curries. It pairs especially well with beans.
- 1 teaspoon Salt - Enhances every component of the curry and helps the aromatics soften and release moisture during sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander - Adds citrusy, aromatic notes that brighten the gravy and complement the richness of the kidney beans.
- 1/3 cup Water - Helps loosen the masala and prevents burning during Instant Pot sautéing. It also aids in blending the spices into a smooth base.
- 1 cup Dried Red Kidney Beans - The star ingredient. Soaking softens the beans, shortens the pressure-cooking time, and ensures even cooking. Rajma develops its signature creaminess when dried beans are used rather than canned.
- 2 cups Water (to cook the beans) - Provides the necessary liquid for pressure cooking. The beans absorb this water as they soften, contributing to the velvety texture of the final rajma gravy.
How To Make This Easy Rajma Recipe
- Add masala ingredients. Place all ingredients for the onion masala into the inner liner of the Instant Pot.
- Add Trivet. Place a trivet on top of this masala.
- Add beans. In a heat-safe bowl, combine the red kidney beans and water. Cover the bowl with foil. Place the covered bowl on top of the trivet and seal the Instant Pot.
- Cook. Press the BEAN button to cook and let it naturally release pressure.
- Remove beans. Open the Instant Pot and remove the red kidney beans and the trivet. Slightly mash half the rajma with your spoon.
- Saute and mix. Turn the pot onto saute. Pour the rajma and any remaining water in with the onion masala and mix well. Let it come to a boil to meld all the flavors well.
- Serve. Serve over rice.
Tips And Tricks
Creating restaurant-style rajma at home is easy with the Instant Pot, especially when you follow these tried-and-true tips to maximize flavor and achieve that signature creamy texture.
- Serve this with some homemade Greek yogurt !
- Want to make this Pressure Cooker Rajma Recipe with canned kidney beans? First, make the onion masala . Then add 3/4 cup masala, 4 cups cooked kidney beans, and 1 cup water to the Instant Pot. Cook for 5 minutes under pressure, NPR for 10 minutes then release all the remaining pressure and serve.
Variations
Instant Pot Rajma is wonderfully versatile, and these variations let you customize the flavor, texture, and richness to suit your preferences. Customize it for if you want something creamier, spicier, lighter, or more traditional.
- Punjabi-Style Rajma - Add 1–2 tablespoons of butter and 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream or cashew cream after pressure cooking for a richer, restaurant-style texture.
- Dhaba-Style Rajma - Stir in 1 teaspoon of crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) and increase the spices slightly, especially cumin and coriander, for a bold, smoky roadside flavor.
- Spicy Rajma - Increase cayenne pepper or add 1–2 chopped green chilies. For deeper heat, stir in ½ teaspoon red chili flakes during sautéing.
What To Eat With Rajma
Instant Pot Rajma is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to build a complete and satisfying meal with minimal effort.
- Basmati Rice - The traditional and most beloved pairing. Fluffy basmati rice absorbs the creamy rajma gravy perfectly.
- Jeera Rice - Lightly spiced rice with toasted cumin seeds adds aroma and complexity without overpowering the curry.
- Roti or Chapati - Soft, warm flatbreads make a great option for scooping up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic Naan or Butter Naan - For a richer, restaurant-style experience, serve your rajma with warm, buttery naan.
How Long Does It Last?
Instant Pot Rajma stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
When kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, rajma will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually intensify as it sits, resulting in an even richer and more cohesive gravy the next day.
Before serving, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Instant Pot Rajma, and it freezes exceptionally well due to its thick, bean-based gravy.
Once the rajma has fully cooled, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the rajma overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
More Delicious Indian Recipes
- Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala - Make an authentic Tikka Masala recipe in your Instant Pot.
- Chicken Vindaloo - It’s easy to make, keto and gluten-free.
- Baingan Bharta Eggplant Dip - Get a wonderful smoky flavor without spending time to roast and char the eggplant.
- Simple Chickpea Salad - The perfect vegan salad that can be made in 30 minutes
- Simple Lentil Soup Recipe - Delicious and authentic tasting with just a few basic ingredients.
- Easy Chicken Korma Recipe - So easy that you can make it on a weeknight in less than an hour.
- Easy Indian Curry Recipe - So easy, yet so authentic.
- Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken - Super simple, no fuss, and deliciously authentic.
Photo Credit: Manu Manson
Rajma Recipe | Instant Pot Rajma
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Onion Masala
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Oil
- ▢ 1.5 cups Onion , diced
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger , minced
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Garlic , minced
- ▢ 1 cup Canned Tomatoes , with liquid
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
- ▢ 1/3 cup Water
For the Kidney Beans
- ▢ 1 cup Dried Red Kidney Beans , soaked in hot water for an hour
- ▢ 2 cups Water , (to cook the beans)
Instructions
- Place all ingredients for the onion masala into the inner liner of the Instant Pot.
- Place a trivet on top of this masala.
- In a heat-safe bowl, place the red kidney beans and 2 cups of water. Cover the bowl with foil.
- Place the covered bowl on top of the trivet. Seal the Instant Pot.
- Press the BEAN button to cook for 30 minutes and let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes.
- Open the Instant Pot and remove the red kidney beans and the trivet. Slightly mash about half the rajma with the back of your spoon.
- Turn the pot onto SAUTÉ (high). Pour the rajma and any remaining water in with the onion masala and mix well. Let the contents come to a boil to meld all the flavors well.
- Serve with rice.
Tips And Tricks For Making This Red Kidney Beans Recipe
- Serve this with some homemade Greek yogurt !
- Want to make this Pressure Cooker Rajma Recipe with canned kidney beans? First, make the onion masala . Then add 3/4 cup masala, 4 cups cooked kidney beans, and 1 cup water to the Instant Pot. Cook for 5 minutes under pressure, NPR for 10 minutes then release all the remaining pressure and serve.
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Every Punjabi household has its own version of rajma, and nothing says comfort food like this Instant Pot Rajma Recipe. It’s what you cook on a day you’re tired, couldn’t be bothered to cook too much, and are pretty much out of ideas anyway.
Why You’ll Love These Instant Pot Kidney Beans
- Hands-Off Cooking. The Instant Pot takes care of the long simmering time traditionally needed for rajma, giving you tender, flavorful beans with minimal effort.
- Deep, Comforting Flavor . Warm spices, tomatoes, and aromatics create a rich gravy that tastes like it simmered all day.
- Protein-Packed & Hearty . Kidney beans make this a naturally filling vegetarian meal that keeps you satisfied.
- Budget-Friendly . Made with pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients, it’s an affordable weeknight option.
This Pressure Cooker Indian Rajma Kidney Beans recipe is a classic Indian comfort food. Hearty, filling and delicious, this simple kidney beans recipe truly can’t be beat.
Why Make Rajma In The Instant Pot?
When you add in the ease of making it in your Instant Pot or pressure cooker and you have the perfect dinner dish . This Rajma Chawal dish is made considerably easier if you already have the Onion Masala on hand, but I’ve written this recipe in a way that you don’t have to have it.
We’re going to make the masala and the beans simultaneously by using Pot-In-Pot cooking , as we did when we did the PIP Chana and Rice cooking . This allows you to make a complete Rajma Masala recipe all in a single Instant Pot, saving you time and dirtying less dishes, because #ruthlesseffefficiency.
Is Rajma Good For Weight Loss?
Though this vegan kidney bean recipe is far from low carb and I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for anybody living a keto lifestyle , some suggest that it can be used to assist in weight loss. Because of the high protein and fiber content, it can keep you full longer while aiding in digestive health, which in turn can help you eat less during the day.
Are Rajma And Red Kidney Beans The Same Thing?
Rajma (sometimes spelled as “Rajmah”) quite literally means kidney beans. However, when one refers to Rajmah they are referring to this Indian kidney bean recipe that consists of kidney beans and a thick tomato-based gravy mixed with Indian spices. It’s a classic Punjabi comfort food that’s oh so delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon Oil -Provides the fat needed to sauté the aromatics, bloom the spices, and build the flavorful base of the rajma gravy.
- 1.5 cups Onion - Creates body and sweetness in the masala. As the onions cook down, they thicken the gravy and provide depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger - Adds warmth and brightness. Ginger helps balance the richness of the beans and enhances the aromatic profile of the curry.
- 1 tablespoon Garlic - Introduces a savory backbone to the dish. Garlic intensifies the overall flavor and supports the earthy spices.
- 1 cup Canned Tomatoes - Supplies acidity and sweetness. Tomatoes contribute to the classic thick rajma gravy and help break down the beans during pressure cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper - Brings heat and enhances the warm spice profile. You can adjust it to make the dish mild or spicy.
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric - Adds a mild earthiness and gives the dish its golden undertone. Turmeric also enhances depth and aromatic complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala - A finishing spice blend that provides the signature Indian warmth and sweetness. It rounds out the dish with a fragrant, well-balanced finish.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin - Adds a warm, earthy flavor essential to North Indian curries. It pairs especially well with beans.
- 1 teaspoon Salt - Enhances every component of the curry and helps the aromatics soften and release moisture during sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander - Adds citrusy, aromatic notes that brighten the gravy and complement the richness of the kidney beans.
- 1/3 cup Water - Helps loosen the masala and prevents burning during Instant Pot sautéing. It also aids in blending the spices into a smooth base.
- 1 cup Dried Red Kidney Beans - The star ingredient. Soaking softens the beans, shortens the pressure-cooking time, and ensures even cooking. Rajma develops its signature creaminess when dried beans are used rather than canned.
- 2 cups Water (to cook the beans) - Provides the necessary liquid for pressure cooking. The beans absorb this water as they soften, contributing to the velvety texture of the final rajma gravy.
How To Make This Easy Rajma Recipe
- Add masala ingredients. Place all ingredients for the onion masala into the inner liner of the Instant Pot.
- Add Trivet. Place a trivet on top of this masala.
- Add beans. In a heat-safe bowl, combine the red kidney beans and water. Cover the bowl with foil. Place the covered bowl on top of the trivet and seal the Instant Pot.
- Cook. Press the BEAN button to cook and let it naturally release pressure.
- Remove beans. Open the Instant Pot and remove the red kidney beans and the trivet. Slightly mash half the rajma with your spoon.
- Saute and mix. Turn the pot onto saute. Pour the rajma and any remaining water in with the onion masala and mix well. Let it come to a boil to meld all the flavors well.
- Serve. Serve over rice.
Tips And Tricks
Creating restaurant-style rajma at home is easy with the Instant Pot, especially when you follow these tried-and-true tips to maximize flavor and achieve that signature creamy texture.
- Serve this with some homemade Greek yogurt !
- Want to make this Pressure Cooker Rajma Recipe with canned kidney beans? First, make the onion masala . Then add 3/4 cup masala, 4 cups cooked kidney beans, and 1 cup water to the Instant Pot. Cook for 5 minutes under pressure, NPR for 10 minutes then release all the remaining pressure and serve.
Variations
Instant Pot Rajma is wonderfully versatile, and these variations let you customize the flavor, texture, and richness to suit your preferences. Customize it for if you want something creamier, spicier, lighter, or more traditional.
- Punjabi-Style Rajma - Add 1–2 tablespoons of butter and 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream or cashew cream after pressure cooking for a richer, restaurant-style texture.
- Dhaba-Style Rajma - Stir in 1 teaspoon of crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) and increase the spices slightly, especially cumin and coriander, for a bold, smoky roadside flavor.
- Spicy Rajma - Increase cayenne pepper or add 1–2 chopped green chilies. For deeper heat, stir in ½ teaspoon red chili flakes during sautéing.
What To Eat With Rajma
Instant Pot Rajma is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to build a complete and satisfying meal with minimal effort.
- Basmati Rice - The traditional and most beloved pairing. Fluffy basmati rice absorbs the creamy rajma gravy perfectly.
- Jeera Rice - Lightly spiced rice with toasted cumin seeds adds aroma and complexity without overpowering the curry.
- Roti or Chapati - Soft, warm flatbreads make a great option for scooping up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic Naan or Butter Naan - For a richer, restaurant-style experience, serve your rajma with warm, buttery naan.
How Long Does It Last?
Instant Pot Rajma stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
When kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, rajma will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually intensify as it sits, resulting in an even richer and more cohesive gravy the next day.
Before serving, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Instant Pot Rajma, and it freezes exceptionally well due to its thick, bean-based gravy.
Once the rajma has fully cooled, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the rajma overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
More Delicious Indian Recipes
- Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala - Make an authentic Tikka Masala recipe in your Instant Pot.
- Chicken Vindaloo - It’s easy to make, keto and gluten-free.
- Baingan Bharta Eggplant Dip - Get a wonderful smoky flavor without spending time to roast and char the eggplant.
- Simple Chickpea Salad - The perfect vegan salad that can be made in 30 minutes
- Simple Lentil Soup Recipe - Delicious and authentic tasting with just a few basic ingredients.
- Easy Chicken Korma Recipe - So easy that you can make it on a weeknight in less than an hour.
- Easy Indian Curry Recipe - So easy, yet so authentic.
- Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken - Super simple, no fuss, and deliciously authentic.
Photo Credit: Manu Manson
Rajma Recipe | Instant Pot Rajma
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Onion Masala
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Oil
- ▢ 1.5 cups Onion , diced
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger , minced
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Garlic , minced
- ▢ 1 cup Canned Tomatoes , with liquid
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
- ▢ 1/3 cup Water
For the Kidney Beans
- ▢ 1 cup Dried Red Kidney Beans , soaked in hot water for an hour
- ▢ 2 cups Water , (to cook the beans)
Instructions
- Place all ingredients for the onion masala into the inner liner of the Instant Pot.
- Place a trivet on top of this masala.
- In a heat-safe bowl, place the red kidney beans and 2 cups of water. Cover the bowl with foil.
- Place the covered bowl on top of the trivet. Seal the Instant Pot.
- Press the BEAN button to cook for 30 minutes and let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes.
- Open the Instant Pot and remove the red kidney beans and the trivet. Slightly mash about half the rajma with the back of your spoon.
- Turn the pot onto SAUTÉ (high). Pour the rajma and any remaining water in with the onion masala and mix well. Let the contents come to a boil to meld all the flavors well.
- Serve with rice.
Tips And Tricks For Making This Red Kidney Beans Recipe
- Serve this with some homemade Greek yogurt !
- Want to make this Pressure Cooker Rajma Recipe with canned kidney beans? First, make the onion masala . Then add 3/4 cup masala, 4 cups cooked kidney beans, and 1 cup water to the Instant Pot. Cook for 5 minutes under pressure, NPR for 10 minutes then release all the remaining pressure and serve.
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Nutrition
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Rajma Recipe | Instant Pot Rajma
Ingredients
For the Onion Masala
- 1 tablespoon Oil
- 1.5 cups Onion diced
- 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger minced
- 1 tablespoon Garlic minced
- 1 cup Canned Tomatoes with liquid
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
- 1/3 cup Water
For the Kidney Beans
- 1 cup Dried Red Kidney Beans soaked in hot water for an hour
- 2 cups Water (to cook the beans)
Instructions
- Place all ingredients for the onion masala into the inner liner of the Instant Pot.
- Place a trivet on top of this masala.
- In a heat-safe bowl, place the red kidney beans and 2 cups of water. Cover the bowl with foil.
- Place the covered bowl on top of the trivet. Seal the Instant Pot.
- Press the BEAN button to cook for 30 minutes and let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes.
- Open the Instant Pot and remove the red kidney beans and the trivet. Slightly mash about half the rajma with the back of your spoon.
- Turn the pot onto SAUTÉ (high). Pour the rajma and any remaining water in with the onion masala and mix well. Let the contents come to a boil to meld all the flavors well.
- Serve with rice.
Tips And Tricks For Making This Red Kidney Beans Recipe
- Serve this with some homemade Greek yogurt !
- Want to make this Pressure Cooker Rajma Recipe with canned kidney beans? First, make the onion masala . Then add 3/4 cup masala, 4 cups cooked kidney beans, and 1 cup water to the Instant Pot. Cook for 5 minutes under pressure, NPR for 10 minutes then release all the remaining pressure and serve.
Rajma Recipe | Instant Pot Rajma https://twosleevers.com/instant-pot-vegan-indian-rajma-red-kidney-beans/
This Nigerian Fried Rice recipe is a quick, tasty dinner or side dish idea. Forget the traditional ideas of fried food and give this healthy take on fried rice a try.
Instant Pot Fried Rice Nigerian Style | Nigerian Fried Rice
Traditional Nigerian Fried Rice takes a long time to cook and needs a lot of babysitting at the stove. So I used my Instant Pot for this recipe, and I’m so happy with how it turned out that I’ll never make it the traditional way again.
What Makes This Instant Pot Fried Rice So Good?
You likely know if you’ve made this before, Nigerian Fried Rice typically takes over an hour to cook. My pressure cooker fried rice recipe only takes you about 35 minutes.
I compared the traditional method of cooking with the Instant Pot version side by side, and really there was little to no taste difference at all. I’d call that an Instant Pot win!
The best part about cooking fried rice in your pressure cooker is that it was all hands-off. No major prep steps or complicated cooking steps.
What Are The Main Ingredients In Fried Rice?
- Basmati Rice - The rice is the base of the recipe
- Frozen Peas and Carrots - Because a few veggies never hurt anyone
- Oil - it can’t be fried rice without a little oil, right?
- Chicken Bouillon Paste - Gives the gorgeous yellow color to the rice.
- Curry Powder - Yes, believe it or not, I use curry POWDER in this dish.
- Dried Thyme
- Kosher Salt
- Cooked Shrimp - Warms with the risidual heat of the Instant Pot.
What Can I Use Instead Of Shrimp?
There are no rules on which fried rice ingredients you can use.
- Ham
- Turkey
- Rotisserie Chicken
- Any leftover meat in your fridge.
This recipe is a great way to use up any protein you have in your kitchen.
I’d suggest you mix in cooked meat after the rice is cooked, much as I did with this cooked shrimp.
But yes, feel free to customize this Instant Pot Nigerian Fried Rice –which just happens to be not all that fried after all.
I Should Use Curry Powder?
YES! I know, I know, I tell you never to use curry powder, except–I do use it for non-Indian cooking. I know that sounds odd, but this Nigerian Fried Rice is actually traditionally made with curry powder for fried rice spices . So yes, I used it for this one.
But I still stand by my original position– make your own spice mixes with these recipes ! And watch my video on how to use spices in cooking .
I have also used Knorr Bouillon granules as that is what is preferred by most of my Nigerian friends who make traditional Nigerian food .
How To Make Nigerian Fried Rice In The Instant Pot
You seriously won’t believe how easy this is.
- Place all ingredients except shrimp in the Instant Pot .
- Stir to mix.
- Cook on high pressure with Natural Pressure Release.
- Stir in shrimp or other protein.
- Let rest for an additional 5 minutes.
- Eat
How To Make Nigerian Fried Rice On The Stovetop
If you don’t have a pressure cooker or Instant Pot , you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of Nigerian Fried Rice . Here’s how to make it on your stovetop:
- Start with leftover rice (or make rice , spread on a cookie sheet , and allow to cool) This is to keep the rice from clumping.
- Cook the onions and spices in a nonstick pan
- Add the shrimp until it’s barely pink
- Add the rice and saute until it’s properly coated with the spices and is heated through
What Is The Secret To Good Fried Rice?
In my opinion, the secret to good fried rice is finding the perfect seasoning blend and making sure it’s not too oily. No one likes a greasy bowl of bland rice. This recipe tackles both of those issues.
The rice is seasoned with an incredibly delicious curry powder blend and the rice is cooked under pressure with the oil to keep it plump and delicate without “frying” it in the oil after it is cooked.
How Long Does It Last?
Due to the high levels of moisture in the veggies and shrimp, the fried rice only lasts a few days after it is prepared. The excess moisture can cause the rice to break down and become gummy is stored too long.
For the best results, try to enjoy this within 2-3 days after making it.
What Do You Serve With This Fried Rice Recipe?
Nigerian fried rice isn’t typically served the same way we enjoy other fried rice dishes in the United States. While you may be used to digging into a nice wonton, gyoza, or dumpling with your fried rice, this is what is traditionally served with Nigerian Fried Rice:
- Fish
- Plantains
- Fried Chicken
- Coleslaw
- Moi Moi
More Tasty Rice Dishes
If you love the ease and robust flavors of this Nigerian Fried Rice, check out some of my other popular rice dishes:
- Lebanese Hashweh
- Indian Pilau
- Air Fryer Shrimp Fried Rice
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious recipe, give this Nigerian Fried Rice a try. It quickly became one of my favorite recipes. Not to mention, it’s bursting with flavor and a satisfying meal.
Instant Pot Nigerian Fried Rice
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 cup ( 185 g ) Basmati Rice , rinsed and drained
- ▢ 10 oz ( 283.5 g ) Frozen Peas and Carrots
- ▢ 1 cup ( 250 g ) Water
- ▢ 2 tablespoons ( 2 tablespoons ) Oil
- ▢ 2 teaspoons ( 2 teaspoons ) Chicken Bouillon Paste
- ▢ 1 teaspoon ( 1 teaspoon ) Curry Powder
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon ( 0.5 teaspoon ) Dried Thyme
- ▢ 1 teaspoon ( 1 teaspoon ) Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1 pound ( 453.59 g ) Cooked Shrimp , defrosted
Instructions
- In the inner liner of your Instant Pot or Pressure cooker, place rice, frozen vegetables, water, oil, chicken bouillon powder, curry powder, thyme leaves and salt. Stir to mix.
- Set the pressure cooker to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. At the end of the cook time, allow the pot to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes and then release all remaining pressure.
- Gently stir in the cooked shrimp, taking care to not break the rice grains. Cover the pot with the lid and let it rest for an additional 5 minutes so that the shrimp can heat through. You can also do this with uncooked shrimp, but you may have to let the covered pot sit for a little longer to allow the shrimp to cook.
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Nutrition
Don’t forget to check out my otherBest-selling Instant Pot Cookbooks!
Indian Instant Pot , Keto Instant Pot, Instant Pot Fast and Easy , Healthy Instant Pot & Vegetarian Instant Pot .
