Rasam is a popular South Indian soup known for its tangy and spicy flavors. Made from tamarind juice, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, Rasam is often consumed as a starter or side dish in traditional South Indian meals. The soup is light and refreshing, yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect complement to a main course of rice and vegetables. Rasam is not only delicious but also known for its digestive benefits, thanks to the spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and black pepper used in its preparation.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup tamarind juice (extracted from tamarind pulp)
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2-3 dried red chilies
• 2-3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• A few curry leaves
• 1 tablespoon rasam powder (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tamarind Juice:

   • Soak a small ball of tamarind in warm water for about 10 minutes. Squeeze and extract the juice, discarding the pulp. Set aside.

2. Cook the Tomatoes:

   • In a pot, add the chopped tomatoes along with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.

3. Add Tamarind Juice and Spices:

   • Add the tamarind juice, turmeric powder, salt, and rasam powder (if using) to the pot. Let it simmer on low heat.

4. Prepare the Tempering:

   • In a separate small pan, heat the ghee or oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add cumin seeds, black pepper, crushed garlic, dried red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Sauté for a minute until aromatic.

5. Combine and Simmer:

   • Pour the tempering into the simmering tomato and tamarind mixture. Stir well and let the rasam simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   • Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with rice or enjoy as a warm, flavorful soup.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 250g):

• Calories: ~80 kcal
• Proteins: ~2g
• Carbs: ~14g
• Fiber: ~3g

Nutritional Summary: Rasam is a low-calorie soup that is light yet flavorful. It is rich in antioxidants from tomatoes and spices, and the fiber content aids digestion. While low in protein, it is a great starter or side dish that complements a balanced diet. The spices used also have anti-inflammatory properties, making Rasam a healthy addition to any meal