Bhumika Jagtap
Rasam Recipe: Traditional South Indian Rasam
Discover the authentic South Indian Rasam recipe – a tangy, spiced broth with rich flavors and hidden health benefits. Learn traditional ingredients, step-by-step techniques, and expert tips to perfect this comforting dish every time. Your ultimate guide to making soul-soothing Rasam awaits!”
What is Rasam?
Rasam is a South Indian gel soup that has a potion comprising of spices etc which tastes sour. Rasam can also be used as an appetizer. It can be served with plain rice enabling a more traditional South Indian diet. With the help of tomatoes, tamarind juice, and Rasam powder, a blend of appropriate spices, Rasam can be created. From a culinary perspective it is not only delicious but nutritious, and being soupy, it is also seasonal enabling the generation of warmth and sensation adding to the overall experience of consuming it.
Rasam is one of the most favored South Indian cuisines particularly due to its versatility. Rasam can be described as a soup-like dish used to relieve a cold, restore the appetite, or just warm the stomach. Rasam is easy to prepare, and warm up the palate, and that’s why it is a popular dish at home. Rasam’s tantalizing spices are not only aromatic and smelly, but they also have relevant therapeutic value, resulting in a healthy and delightful dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tamarind | 1 small lemon-sized ball |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium, chopped |
| Water | 4 cups |
| Rasam powder | 2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp, coarsely ground |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp, coarsely ground |
| Garlic | 2-3 cloves, crushed |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Hing (Asafoetida) | A pinch |
| Coriander leaves | 2 tbsp, chopped |
| Ghee or oil | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
Step-by-Step Rasam Recipe
Prepare Tamarind Water:
- In a cup of warm water, soak the tamarind for 10 minutes. Squeeze out the pulp to get the tamarind water and set it aside.
Cook the Base:
- In the pot, add the chopped tomatoes along with turmeric powder and salt. Crush or mash the tomatoes slightly and wait until they are softened.
Add Tamarind and Spices:
- Add enough of the prepared tamarind water, Rasam powder, black pepper, and cumin seeds. Mix everything well and pour in 4 cups of water. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
Temper the Rasam:
- In a small pan, heat up some ghee or oil. Add mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. Then add crushed garlic, curry leaves, and hing and sauté for a minute before throwing the tempering over the simmering Rasam.
Finish with Fresh Herbs:
- Add some fresh coriander leaves to the top for decoration. Add some salt, if necessary, and switch off the stove.
Serve Hot:
- Rasam can be served hot, whether as a soup or with steamed rice.
Final Touch For Memorable Rasam
For a prominent taste, dry roasting cumin and peppercorns before grinding them works wonders. Also, never forget to use fresh coriander leaves for garnishing as it increases the aroma and taste.
Why Choose Blend of India Spices?
For an unforgettable taste of Rasam, a good amount of spices do the magic. Blend of India is coming up with its organic preservative-free spices, promising to get the real authentic flavors of India in the kitchen today. Watch this space for the launch of Blend of India Spices to be your taste creator.
FAQ’s
Q: Is eating Rasam beneficial?
A. Yes, Rasam is a low-calorie dish, helps digestion, and is rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
Q: Is it possible to prepare Rasam without using tamarind?
A. Yes, if you don’t like the flavor of tamarind, you can use lemon juice.
Q: What is the Rasam powder made of?
A. Rasam powder is a mixture of spices, for instance, coriander seeds, red chilies, cumin, and pepper, which are sold in the shops or made in the house.
