Traditional Tomato Rasam

Ingredients

• 3 Medium Ripe Tomatoes
• 2 tbsp MVS Foods Rasam Podi
• 1 Small Lemon-sized Tamarind
• 3 cups Water
• 2 tbsp Cooked Toor Dal Water (Optional)
• 3 Garlic Cloves (Optional)
• ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 2 Dry Red Chillies
• 1 Sprig Curry Leaves
• 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander Leaves (Chopped)
• 1 tbsp Ghee or Gingelly Oil
• Salt to Taste

Preparation

1. Prepare the Tamarind Base

   Soak the tamarind in warm water for 10 minutes and extract the juice. Crush or roughly chop the tomatoes.

2. Cook the Tomatoes

   Add the tamarind extract, tomatoes, turmeric powder, salt, and water to a vessel. Cook over medium heat until the tomatoes become soft.

3. Add Rasam Podi

   Add MVS Foods Rasam Podi and mix well. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

4. Add Dal Water

   Pour in the cooked toor dal water (optional) and let the rasam gently simmer. Do not allow it to boil vigorously.

5. Prepare the Tempering

   Heat ghee or gingelly oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dry red chillies, garlic (optional), and curry leaves. Allow the spices to splutter.

6. Finish & Serve

   Pour the tempering over the rasam. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice and appalam or enjoy it as a comforting soup.