Welcome back to Plate Full of Yum! Today, I’m sharing a beloved recipe in our household, Tomato Rasam, also known as Thakkali Rasam. This tangy and flavorful South Indian soup is a staple in South Indian cuisine. Additionally, it’s incredibly delicious and known for its soothing properties. When you have a cold or need digestive relief, this dish is perfect. Typically, people serve it at the end of a meal with rice. Rasam aids digestion and provides comfort with its unique blend of warming spices and aromatic herbs.
What is Rasam?
Rasam, a traditional South Indian dish made with tomatoes, spices, and herbs, is known for its tangy and spicy flavor. Furthermore, it’s an essential part of any South Indian meal. The magic of Rasam lies in the Rasam Powder, a fragrant spice blend that forms the backbone of this dish. You can find my detailed recipe for Homemade Rasam Powder here. This spice blend enhances the taste and offers various health benefits, making Rasam a favorite comfort food in many South Indian households.
Why Make Tomato Rasam?
Tomato Rasam is not just a dish; it’s an experience. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh garlic, and our special Rasam Powder creates a symphony of flavors that is both tangy and spicy. This dish is versatile and usually paired with rice for a hearty meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for beginners looking to explore South Indian cuisine. By making Tomato Rasam, you’ll not only bring a taste of South Indian tradition to your table but also delight your family with every bite.
![Tomato Rasam Recipe](https://platefullofyum.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/tomato-rasam-e1719231919181-720x720.jpeg)
Tomato Rasam Recipe
Let’s dive into the Tomato Rasam recipe. With its tangy and spicy flavor, this dish brings South India to your kitchen. Serve it as a comforting soup or a flavorful rice accompaniment. It's sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s get cooking and enjoy this exquisite tomato rasam!
Ingredients
- 3 large tomatoes
- 4 large garlic cloves (or 8 small ones)
- 2 heaped teaspoons of Rasam Powder (adjust based on your spice preference)
- A handful of coriander leaves
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 12 dry red chilies
- 2 sprigs of curry leaves
- 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon asafetida (kaayam/hing)
- Salt to taste
- 3 1/4 cups of water
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Crush the tomatoes and the garlic cloves in a blender.
- Cook the Tomatoes and Garlic: In a large pot, add the tomatoes, garlic, turmeric powder, salt, and 3 1/4 cups of water. Cook on medium heat for 10 minutes until the vegetables are cooked.
- Add Rasam Powder and Asafetida: Add 2 heaped teaspoons of Rasam Powder and 1/2 teaspoon of asafetida. Add an extra teaspoon if you prefer a spicier dish. Continue to boil for another 5 minutes. Tip: If you don’t have rasam powder, use 2 teaspoons of cumin powder, 1 teaspoon of pepper powder, and 1 teaspoon of Kashmiri chili powder (adjust to taste). Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add Coriander Leaves: Stir in the finely chopped coriander leaves and turn off the heat.
- Prepare the Tempering: In a small skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of oil. Add mustard seeds, and once they start popping, add dry red chilies and fry until they puff up slightly. Add curry leaves, turn off the heat, and stir for a few seconds. Tip: To avoid oil splatter, use a lid or splatter guard to cover your pan.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the tempering mixture into the rasam. Cover and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve Tomato Rasam with rice and stirfried vegetables or thoran.
Notes
Tomato Rasam is more than just a dish; it offers a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor. With my homemade Rasam Powder, you can easily recreate this traditional Kerala recipe in your kitchen. You can enjoy it as a soup or with rice, and Tomato Rasam is sure to become a favorite in your home.
For more recipes on homemade spice blends, explore our Spice Blends section. Now, let’s dive into the world of flavors with this exquisite Tomato Rasam!