Tomato Rasam – South Indian Style

Step 1: Soak Tamarind

Place 2 tablespoons of tamarind in a bowl. Add 1 cup of warm water and let it soak for 15 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Extract Tamarind Pulp

After soaking, nicely mash the tamarind with your hands to extract the pulp. Strain the tamarind mixture through a sieve into another bowl, pressing to get all the liquid. Discard the solids.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients for Rasam

Heat a pan and pour the strained tamarind water into it. Add 2 chopped tomatoes, 2 cups of water, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 2 teaspoons of rasam powder, and 1/8 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing). Mix all ingredients well.

Step 4: Cook the Rasam Base

Cook the mixture on a low flame for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add Dal and Seasonings

Add 2 tablespoons of cooked and mashed toor dal (which was pressure cooked with 1/4 cup water) to the rasam. Stir well. Then, add 1 tablespoon of jaggery and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Add Fresh Coriander

Add a handful of fresh coriander leaves to the rasam and mix well. Let it simmer for another minute.

Step 7: Prepare Tempering

In a separate small tempering pan, heat 2 teaspoons of ghee. Once hot, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them crackle. Then, add a few curry leaves and let them sizzle for a few seconds.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Pour the prepared tempering into the rasam and mix it in. Your delicious Tomato Rasam is now ready to be served hot.

• Serve hot with steamed rice and a dollop of ghee for the best experience.

• Adjust the amount of jaggery and salt according to your taste preferences.

• For a spicier rasam, add a slit green chili along with the tomatoes.

• Add a pinch of garlic paste for a different flavor profile.

• You can use a mix of tomatoes and other vegetables like carrots or drumsticks for added nutrition.