Raajma

The 'kidney bean' otherwise called 'the chili bean' with its dark red skin is named for its visual resemblance to a kidney. The kidney bean is also known as the red bean.

Red kidney beans (rajma in Hindi and Punjabi) are an integral part of the cuisine in northern region of India. Red kidney beans are used in New Orleans and much of southern Louisiana for the classic Monday Creole dish of red beans and rice. The smaller, darker red beans are also used, particularly in Louisiana families with a recent Caribbean heritage. They are a common ingredient in chili con carne. Small kidney beans used in La Rioja, Spain, are called Caparrones.