Shalimar take pride in serving dishes that reflect richness of traditional Indian cuisine. One popular favorite is lobia masala— a delightful curry made using black-eyed peas, cooked with aromatic spices and a luscious gravy. It’s the perfect comfort food: nutritious, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.
Lobia, also known as black-eyed beans, absorbs spices wonderfully, creating a wholesome dish that is great for both everyday meals and special occasions. Today, we’re sharing a complete lobia masala recipe inspired by the authentic flavors you enjoy at our restaurant.
Why Lobia Masala Is Special
This curry is loved for a few major reasons:
- High in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients
- Easy to digest and beneficial for overall health
- Delicious enough to be the star dish of any meal
- Versatile — pairs perfectly with rice or roti
Whether you call it Punjabi lobia masala, Rongi Masala, or simply black-eyed peas curry, this dish always wins hearts with its homely yet bold flavors.
Ingredients You Will Need
To prepare restaurant-style lobia masala, gather these ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup black-eyed peas (lobia), soaked overnight
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt as needed
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Spice Mix:
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (optional)
You may adjust the spices based on your preference. For a richer Punjabi lobia masala, you can add a little cream or butter toward the end.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps for a flavorful curry just like Shalimar’s:
Step 1: Boil the Lobia
Drain the soaked black-eyed peas and pressure cook them for 3–4 whistles until soft but not mushy. Keep aside with some of the cooking water preserved for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Sauté onions until golden brown. Now add ginger-garlic paste and cook until aromatic.
Step 3: Build the Gravy
Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts separating from the masala. Mix in turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder.
Step 4: Add Beans to the Curry
Add the cooked lobia along with a little of the reserved water. Stir well and let it simmer so the beans absorb the spices fully.
Step 5: Final Flavoring
Add garam masala and kasuri methi. Cook for a few minutes on low flame to deepen the flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh coriander leaves. Your lobia masala is now ready to enjoy hot with your favorite accompaniment!
A Nutritious Choice for Every Meal
This dish isn’t just tasty — it’s packed with benefits:
- Supports muscle growth with plant-based protein
- Good fiber content helps digestion
- Iron and magnesium boost energy and wellness
That’s why dry lobia masala recipe variations are also popular among health-conscious diners — less gravy, same bold flavors.
Whether eaten for lunch with rice or dinner with chapati, this curry satisfies hunger with wholesome nutrition.
Shalimar’s Pro Cooking Tips
To match the true restaurant taste at home, try these tips:
Freshly soak and boil lobia instead of using canned beans
Mash a few beans inside the curry for a thicker texture
Slow simmering enhances the flavor profile significantly
Add a teaspoon of coconut milk for a creamy twist
Keep spices fresh and aromatic for the best result
These little touches truly elevate your homemade lobia masala.
Serving Suggestions
This curry pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed basmati rice
- Jeera rice
- Chapati or tandoori roti
- Paratha or puri
Add salad, pickle, and raita for a complete Shalimar-style dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How to make lobia masala easily at home?
Pressure cook soaked lobia, prepare a tomato-onion gravy with spices, then simmer everything together until beautifully blended.
Q2: How to prepare lobia masala like a restaurant?
Use fresh spices, sauté the masala properly, and simmer longer for richer flavor. Finish with kasuri methi for authenticity.
Why Our Guests Love This Dish
At Shalimar, our chefs cook with passion and precision. Every pot of lobia masala carries the essence of homemade love blended with expert culinary craftsmanship. The rich flavors transport diners back to their roots while providing the joyful experience of a comforting meal.
Whether you’re enjoying it with friends, family, or on a quiet evening alone, this dish always brings warmth to the table.