Tomato Rasam

Tomato Rasam Recipe - Authentic Indian Cuisine

Region / culture: India | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomato Rasam is a traditional South Indian soup-like dish that is bursting with flavors and spices. It is a popular comfort food that is often served with rice or enjoyed on its own. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Rasam has been a staple in South Indian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Tamil Nadu and has since spread to other parts of India. Originally, rasam was made with tamarind juice, but over time, different variations have been created, including tomato rasam.

Ingredients

1 cup of yellow lentil (tuar dal)
0.5 cup of tamarind water
1 cup of tomato purée
0.5 tsp of ginger-garlic paste
0.5 tsp of mustard seeds
1 tsp of cumin seeds
0.5 tsp of turmeric powder
0.25 tsp of black pepper powder
0.5 tsp of red chilli powder
3 tbsp of chopped curry leaves
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
salt to taste

How to prepare

Place the lentils in a pressure cooker with turmeric and 3.5 cups of water.
Pressure cook the lentils or bring them to a boil and let them cook over medium heat until tender (about half an hour).
Set aside and heat oil in a pan.
Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add red chilli powder, pepper powder, salt, tomato purée, ginger-garlic paste, and cook for 4 minutes.
Add tamarind water and 2 tbsp of curry leaves. Stir well.
Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, and cook for 2 minutes.
Blend the lentils in an electric blender.
Add the lentil puree to the above mixture.
Also, add 2-3 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
Serve hot. Garnish with curry leaves.

Variations

Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Use tamarind paste instead of tomato purée for a tangier taste.
Garnish with roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the rasam, roast the cumin and mustard seeds before adding them to the dish.

- Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.

- For a thicker consistency, you can add more lentils or simmer the rasam for longer.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato Rasam is best served hot with steamed rice or as a soup on its own. It can also be enjoyed with dosa or idli.

Cooking Techniques

Pressure cook the lentils to save time and ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

- Blend the lentils for a smooth consistency before adding them to the tomato mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ghee instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor.

- Substitute curry leaves with dried curry leaves or bay leaves.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato Rasam can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tomato Rasam in a bowl garnished with fresh curry leaves for a pop of color. Pair with steamed rice and papad for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato Rasam pairs well with coconut chutney, pickle, or yogurt on the side. Enjoy with a glass of buttermilk for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Tomato Rasam in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tomato Rasam contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

This dish is low in fat, with only 5 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Tomato Rasam is a good source of protein, with around 8 grams per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan. However, it contains mustard seeds, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Tomato Rasam is a nutritious dish that is low in carbs and fats, but high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tomato Rasam is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its blend of spices and tangy tomato flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this comforting dish with rice or on its own for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. She had invited me over for lunch, promising me a taste of her famous Tomato Rasam. I had never tried this South Indian dish before, but Margaret raved about how comforting and flavorful it was.

As I sat at her kitchen table, sipping on a glass of refreshing lemonade, Margaret began to prepare the Tomato Rasam. She moved with such grace and confidence in the kitchen, effortlessly chopping onions, tomatoes, and garlic, and toasting spices in a hot skillet. The aroma that filled the air was intoxicating, a beautiful blend of tangy tomatoes, aromatic spices, and hints of coriander and cumin.

I watched in awe as Margaret added a few secret ingredients to the pot, giving the Rasam a unique and unforgettable twist. As the dish simmered on the stove, she shared with me the story behind the recipe. Margaret had learned to make Tomato Rasam from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. It was a dish that held a special place in her heart, a taste of home and tradition.

When the Rasam was finally ready, Margaret served it piping hot in a bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon. I took my first spoonful, and my taste buds exploded with delight. The flavors were bold and vibrant, a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and aromatic. I savored each bite, feeling a sense of comfort and nostalgia wash over me.

After lunch, Margaret graciously shared the recipe with me, knowing how much I had enjoyed it. She wrote it down on a piece of yellowed paper, the ink slightly faded but the words clear and concise. I tucked the recipe into my purse, knowing that I would soon recreate the Tomato Rasam in my own kitchen.

That evening, I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following Margaret's instructions to the letter. I chopped the onions, tomatoes, and garlic, toasted the spices, and added the secret ingredients that made the dish truly special. As the Rasam simmered on the stove, the familiar aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me back to Margaret's cozy home.

When the Rasam was ready, I ladled it into a bowl and took a tentative sip. The flavors were just as I remembered, bold and comforting, a taste of tradition and love. I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride, knowing that I had successfully recreated Margaret's famous Tomato Rasam.

From that day on, Tomato Rasam became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and cozy nights in. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think of Margaret and the special bond we shared over a love of cooking and sharing recipes.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. But the essence of the dish remains the same, a tribute to Margaret's grandmother and the generations of women who had lovingly passed down this delicious recipe.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Tomato Rasam on the stove, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. The taste of tradition, the aroma of spices, the warmth of a shared meal with a dear friend. These are the moments that make life truly special, and I am grateful for the gift of cooking and the memories it brings.