Tomato Rasam is a tangy and flavorful South Indian soup made with tomatoes, tamarind, and a blend of aromatic spices. It is usually enjoyed as a part of a meal or as a soothing remedy for cold and cough. Here is a recipe for Tomato Rasam:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ready Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small lemon-sized ball of tamarind
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon rasam powder (optional)
- 2-3 dry red chilies
- 10-12 curry leaves
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Soak the tamarind in 1 cup of warm water for about 10 minutes. Squeeze and extract the tamarind juice, discarding the pulp and seeds. Set aside.
- In a large pot, add the chopped tomatoes along with 1 cup of water. Cook the tomatoes on medium heat until they turn soft and mushy.
- Meanwhile, in a small pan, heat the ghee or oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add cumin seeds, black peppercorns, fenugreek seeds, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
- Add the minced garlic (if using) and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Pour the tamarind juice into the pot with the cooked tomatoes. Add turmeric powder, rasam powder (if using), and salt. Mix well.
- Add the tempered spices from the small pan into the pot with the tomato-tamarind mixture. Stir to combine.
- Bring the rasam to a gentle boil on medium heat. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve the Tomato Rasam hot as a soup or as an accompaniment to rice.
Note: Tomato Rasam can be enjoyed on its own or with steamed rice, papadams, or as a comforting soup.
This recipe serves approximately 4 servings. Adjust the quantity of ingredients based on your requirements. Enjoy the tangy and flavorful Tomato Rasam!