Rasam Soup

Rasam Soup Recipe from Pakistan - Delicious and Spicy Soup

Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rasam Soup is a traditional South Indian soup that is known for its tangy and spicy flavors. It is a popular dish that is often served as a starter or as a main course in South Indian households. This soup is not only delicious but also has many health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients.

History

Rasam Soup has been a staple in South Indian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southern region of India and has since become a popular dish in many parts of the country. The recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time to include various ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

0.5 kg tomatoes, finely chopped
15 g tamarind
salt, to taste
3-4 tbsp (25 g) Ahmed Rasam masala

For Tempering

12-15 whole Roasted Red Chillies
1 tbsp whole Roasted cumin seeds
1 medium pod garlic, skinned cloves
1 medium size onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp whole mustard
A few curry leaves
1 tsp black pepper Powder
50 ml oil

For Garnish

5-6 Nos. green Chillies, finely chopped
A few coriander leaves, finely chopped

How to prepare

Boil tomatoes and tamarind in 1-1.5 liters of tap water over low heat until tender.
Thoroughly blend the mixture in a blender and strain it through a muslin cloth to remove seeds and skin.
Reheat the filtered pulp and add Ahmed Rasam masala. Cook over medium heat for 10–15 minutes. Add salt to taste.
Crush the tempering ingredients coarsely and fry them in hot oil for a few minutes. Pour the mixture over the surface of the soup.
Garnish with green chillies and coriander leaves.
Delicious Rasam Soup is ready. Serve hot.

Variations

You can add vegetables like carrots, beans, or drumsticks to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
For a spicier version, you can increase the amount of red chillies in the tempering.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the soup, you can roast the tomatoes before boiling them.

- Adjust the amount of tamarind and spices according to your taste preferences.

- For a thicker consistency, you can add a small amount of cooked lentils or dal to the soup.

- Make sure to strain the tomato and tamarind mixture to remove any seeds and skin for a smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions

Rasam Soup can be served as a starter or as a main course with steamed rice or idli.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the tomatoes and tamarind over low heat to ensure they are tender.

- Blend the mixture thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency.

- Fry the tempering ingredients in hot oil to release their flavors before adding them to the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Ahmed Rasam masala, you can use store-bought rasam powder or make your own blend of spices.

- You can use lemon juice as a substitute for tamarind in the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Rasam Soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Rasam Soup in a bowl garnished with chopped coriander leaves and green chillies for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Rasam Soup pairs well with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or vada for a complete South Indian meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Rasam Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Rasam Soup contains approximately 150 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

Rasam Soup is a low-carb dish, with approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Rasam Soup is a low-fat dish, with approximately 5 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Rasam Soup is a good source of protein, with approximately 3 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Rasam Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Rasam Soup may contain allergens such as mustard and cumin seeds. Please check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Rasam Soup is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Summary

Rasam Soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its tangy and spicy flavors, this South Indian soup is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious and comforting soup as a starter or as a main course for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my friend Meena, who was known for her delicious South Indian cuisine. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing aroma – a fragrant blend of spices that instantly made my mouth water.

Meena was busy stirring a pot of Rasam Soup, a traditional South Indian dish that is known for its tangy and spicy flavor. I watched in awe as she added ingredients like tamarind, tomatoes, and curry leaves to the simmering pot, each one adding its own unique flavor to the dish.

I had never tasted Rasam Soup before, but from the way it smelled, I knew it was going to be something special. Meena noticed my interest and invited me to stay for dinner. As we sat down to eat, she explained to me the history of Rasam Soup and how it was a staple in South Indian households.

I was captivated by the story behind this simple yet flavorful dish, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Meena graciously shared her recipe with me, knowing that I would appreciate and cherish it as much as she did.

Over the years, I have made Rasam Soup countless times, each batch better than the last. I have tweaked the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding a little more spice here, a little less tamarind there. But the basic foundation of the dish – the tangy broth, the aromatic spices – remains the same.

One of the things I love most about Rasam Soup is its versatility. It can be served as a comforting soup on a cold winter day, or as a refreshing appetizer on a hot summer evening. It can be enjoyed with a side of rice or as a standalone dish. No matter how you choose to serve it, Rasam Soup is always a crowd pleaser.

I have shared my recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delicious dish to the next generation. I have added my own twist to the recipe, just as Meena did for me all those years ago. And I hope that they will continue to share it with others, keeping the spirit of Rasam Soup alive for years to come.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Rasam Soup, I am reminded of that fateful day in Meena's kitchen, where I first discovered this culinary gem. I am grateful for the friendships that have enriched my life, and for the recipes that have brought us together. And I am thankful for the opportunity to pass on the tradition of Rasam Soup to those who will appreciate it as much as I do.