Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Base Masala

   In a small mortar and pestle, combine 6 cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Crush them coarsely to release their fresh and earthy aroma.

2. 2.Wash Rice and Dal

   Take 1 cup (250 ml) raw rice and 3 tablespoons toor dal in a bowl. Wash them thoroughly a few times with water until the water runs clear, then drain and set aside.

3. 3.Heat Ghee

   Heat 3 tablespoons of ghee in a pressure cooker over medium flame.

4. 4.Add Tempering

   Once the ghee is hot, add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds and 1 red chili cut into two pieces. Let the mustard seeds splutter.

5. 5.Add Spices

   Next, add 1 slit green chili, 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida powder, and the coarsely crushed garlic, cumin, and pepper masala. Sauté on low flame until fragrant.

6. 6.Add Tomatoes

   Add 2 finely chopped tomatoes to the cooker and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn soft and mushy.

7. 7.Add Dry Spices

   Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 2 teaspoons rasam powder (or sambar powder). Mix well to combine all ingredients and allow the flavors to meld.

8. 8.Add Curry Leaves

   Throw in a few fresh curry leaves and give it all a nice mix.

9. 9.Add Tamarind Water

   Pour in 1 cup of tamarind water and mix well with the other ingredients.

10. 10.Add Rice and Dal

    Add the washed rice and dal mixture into the cooker. Mix everything gently to ensure it's well combined with the masala.

11. 11.Add Water

    Add 6 cups of water (using the same cup that measured the rice). Stir everything once again to ensure even distribution.

12. 12.Pressure Cook

    Close the pressure cooker with its lid and cook on medium flame for about 6 to 7 whistles. This will ensure the rice and dal are perfectly cooked and mushy.

13. 13.Finish Dish

    Once the pressure has released naturally from the cooker, open the lid. Stir the cooked rasam rice gently.

14. 14.Garnish

    Finally, add some freshly chopped coriander leaves and about 2 tablespoons of ghee on top. Mix everything gently to incorporate the flavors.

15. 15.Serve

    Your perfectly soft, delicious, gooey, and flavorful homestyle Rasam Rice is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it hot, optionally with some potato fry and crispy papad on the side.