Milagu Rasam / Pepper Rasam

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons Black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 2 count Garlic cloves
• 2 count Tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Tamarind paste
• 0.125 teaspoon Mustard seeds
• 2 count Dry red chillies
• 0.125 teaspoon Asafoetida
• 0.25 teaspoon Turmeric
• 1 sprig Curry leaves
• 0.125 teaspoon Fennel seeds
• 1 to taste Salt
• 2 cups Water (Adjust as needed for consistency)
• 1 tablespoon Oil
• 1 handful Coriander leaves (For garnish)

Instructions

1. 1In a mixer grinder, finely grind the black peppercorns and cumin seeds to create a homemade rasam powder.
2. 2Using a mortar and pestle, mash the garlic cloves to release their flavor and set aside.
3. 3Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, fennel seeds, dry red chillies, asafoetida, and turmeric. Stir in the curry leaves and the prepared rasam powder, followed by the mashed garlic.
4. 4Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft and mushy. Incorporate the tamarind paste, then add water to adjust the consistency. Season with salt to taste.
5. 5Bring the rasam to a boil, then remove from heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.