Recipes

Introduction

Rasam is a staple in South Indian cuisine, known for its tangy, spicy, and comforting flavors. It's quick to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes. This recipe uses NatureMills Rasam Powder to deliver that perfect blend of spices, making it even easier to recreate this dish at home.

Cooking Time:

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• Tamarind: Small gooseberry size (adjust based on desired tanginess)
• Tomato: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic Cloves: 5, lightly crushed with skin
• NatureMills Rasam Powder: 2 tsp
• Salt: To taste
• Water: 3 cups (or adjust for the desired consistency)

For Seasoning:

• NatureMills Peanut Oil: 1 tbsp
• Mustard Seeds: ½ tsp
• Cumin Seeds: ½ tsp
• Broken Red Chili: 2 (or use green chilies for a milder spice)
• Curry Leaves: 10-12 leaves (fresh is best)

For Garnish:

• Fresh Coriander Leaves: 3 tbsp, chopped
• Optional: A pinch of Asafoetida (Hing) for added flavor

Step-by-Step Method:

1. Prepare Tamarind Water:

   • Soak tamarind in warm water for about 10 minutes.
   • Extract the tamarind juice using 2 cups of water (adjust if you prefer a more diluted or concentrated flavor).
   • Taste and adjust the tanginess, adding more water if necessary.

2. Prepare the Aromatics:

   • Wash and chop the tomato into small pieces.
   • Lightly crush the garlic with the skin on.
   • Mix the chopped tomato and crushed garlic into the tamarind water. Use your hands to squeeze the tomatoes and garlic to release their juices.
   • Add salt to taste and stir in 2 tsp of NatureMills Rasam Powder.

3. Cook the Rasam:

   • Heat NatureMills Peanut Oil in a deep pan or kadai.
   • Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, broken red chilies, and curry leaves. Let the mustard seeds pop and the spices release their fragrance (you can add a pinch of asafoetida for extra flavor here).
   • Pour in the prepared tamarind-tomato mixture. Bring it to a gentle boil on low heat, stirring occasionally.

4. Final Touch:

   • Once the Rasam starts boiling and becomes frothy (this should take about 2-3 minutes), reduce the heat and add fresh chopped coriander leaves and switch off the flame immediately.
   • Cover the Rasam with a lid to allow the flavors to infuse.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy rasam with steamed rice and papad for a traditional South Indian lunch.
• Serve as a hot, comforting soup with a drizzle of ghee on top.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rasam

• Don’t Over Boil: The key to a flavorful Rasam is to not boil it for too long. Simply bring it to a boil and switch off when it becomes frothy. Overcooking will alter the flavor.

• Dal Water Boost: For extra depth, you can add a bit of cooked dal (lentil) water to the Rasam. This adds richness and enhances the texture.

• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or switch to green chilies.

• For Extra Tanginess: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Why Choose NatureMills Rasam Powder?

NatureMills Rasam Powder is crafted with the finest blend of authentic spices, ensuring the perfect balance of flavor and aroma. Elevate your rasam with our high-quality, preservative-free spice mix for a truly traditional experience.

FAQs About Rasam

Q: Can I skip tamarind and use lemon instead?
A: Yes, lemon juice can be added as a substitute for tamarind but add it at the end to maintain its fresh flavor.

Q: What are some variations of rasam?
A: Try garlic rasam, pepper rasam, or tomato rasam for different flavor profiles.

Q: Can I use ghee alternatives?
A: You can use sesame oil for a more traditional South Indian flavor.

Enjoy your flavorful NatureMills Rasam, whether as a comforting soup or paired with a bowl of steaming rice!