Classic South Indian Tomato Rasam

A tangy and spicy South Indian soup traditionally made with tamarind juice and tomatoes, infused with aromatic spices and curry leaves, perfect as a comforting starter or a digestive aid.

Steps

1. Soak tamarind paste in 1 cup water and extract the juice. 2. Heat oil in a small pan, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chili, and curry leaves; let them splutter. 3. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric (optional), and cook until soft. 4. Add tamarind water, rasam powder, salt, black pepper, and asafoetida. 5. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5-7 minutes. 6. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.

1 medium ripe tomato, chopped 1 tsp tamarind paste 1 cup water 1/4 tsp mustard seeds 1/4 tsp cumin seeds 1/4 tsp black pepper, crushed 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing) 1 dried red chili 2-3 curry leaves 1 tsp rasam powder 1 tsp chopped coriander leaves Salt to taste 1 tsp oil