Thakkali Rasam Recipe – A Traditional South Indian Delight
Thakkali Rasam, a beloved dish from Tamil Nadu, is an aromatic, tangy, and comforting soup that can warm you up on chilly days. Known for its rich flavors, this tomato-based rasam is infused with a perfect blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and black pepper. A delicious balance of sourness from tamarind and the savory depth of toor dal (Arhar dal) makes this dish irresistible. Whether served as a soup or paired with rice, Thakkali Rasam is a versatile addition to your main course, especially for those who enjoy vibrant vegetarian dishes. This simple and quick recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and festive meals.
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Thakkali Rasam
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toor dal (Arhar dal) | 25 grams (1/4 cup) |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tsp |
| Tamarind water | 1/2 cup |
| Tomatoes, chopped | 5 medium |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (crushed) |
| Cumin powder (roasted) | 1/2 tsp |
| Coriander powder (roasted) | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Red chili powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| For tempering | |
| Curry leaves | 4 leaves |
| Mustard seeds | 1/4 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1/4 tsp |
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Asafoetida | 1/4 tsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves | 2 sprigs (finely chopped) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 75 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Vitamin C | 20% of daily value |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Instructions to Prepare Thakkali Rasam
-
Prepare the Toor Dal:
Begin by placing the toor dal (Arhar dal) in a pressure cooker. Add 1 cup of water to the dal and cook it under pressure for about 3 whistles. Once done, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the cooker is safe to open, transfer the cooked dal into a bowl and use a spoon or whisk to beat it lightly. Set the dal aside. -
Make Tomato Puree:
Next, take the chopped tomatoes and blend them into a smooth puree using a blender. This puree will form the base of your rasam. -
Prepare the Tempering:
In the same pressure cooker, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter. Then, add the crushed garlic and curry leaves. Sauté them for a minute until fragrant. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Add the tomato puree to the cooker, followed by tamarind water, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, black pepper powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of asafoetida. Mix everything well and let it cook for a few minutes, allowing the spices to blend into the tomato base. -
Cook the Rasam:
Close the pressure cooker and cook for 1 whistle on medium heat. Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and add the prepared toor dal. Stir everything together and add 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Final Touches:
After 10 minutes of simmering, turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and aroma. -
Serving Suggestions:
Thakkali Rasam is best served hot, either as a soup or alongside steamed rice. For a complete meal, pair it with Tomato Onion Sambar and Beetroot Thoran. This combination of flavors is both soothing and satisfying.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Thakkali Rasam:
- Tamarind: If fresh tamarind is unavailable, you can substitute with tamarind paste. Adjust the quantity to your taste, as tamarind paste can be more concentrated.
- Spices: The spice levels in this recipe can be adjusted according to your preference. Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder and black pepper powder for more heat.
- Dal Consistency: The texture of the dal should be smooth and slightly thick. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a bit more water while simmering the rasam.
- Serving Idea: You can enjoy this rasam as a light meal on its own, especially during cold weather when you want something comforting and easy to prepare.
Thakkali Rasam is a true representation of Tamil Nadu’s culinary tradition, offering a balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors in each sip. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether paired with rice for a hearty meal or served as a warm, soothing soup, this rasam is bound to impress everyone at your dinner table.
