Kollu Rasam Recipe – A Hearty South Indian Comfort Soup
Kollu Rasam, also known as Horse Gram Rasam, is a flavorful and nutritious soup from South India, packed with aromatic spices, tangy tamarind, and the hearty goodness of horse gram (Kollu). This soothing soup is not only delicious but also offers various health benefits, especially for digestion and overall wellness. It is traditionally served with rice and a vegetable stir-fry, making it a perfect addition to your lunch or dinner.
Here’s a detailed step-by-step recipe to prepare Kollu Rasam, featuring the authentic taste of South India.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tamarind water | 1 cup |
| Tomatoes (pureed) | 2 tomatoes |
| Horse Gram (Kollu) | 50 grams |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder | 1 teaspoon (roasted) |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon (roasted) |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red Chili Powder | As per taste |
| Fresh Coriander (for garnish) | 5 sprigs, chopped |
| Ghee (Clarified Butter) | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic Cloves | 3 cloves, crushed |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings: 3
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Soak the Horse Gram:
Start by soaking the horse gram (Kollu) for about 5-6 hours in water. This step is crucial for softening the beans and making them easy to cook. -
Cook the Horse Gram:
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked horse gram with water (adjust the quantity as needed) and cook on medium heat for 3-4 whistles. After the pressure cooker gives 3-4 whistles, lower the heat and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes on a simmer. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally. -
Prepare Tamarind Water and Tomato Puree:
While the horse gram is cooking, prepare the tamarind water by soaking a small amount of tamarind in warm water and extracting the juice. Set this aside. Also, puree the tomatoes and keep them ready. -
Cooking the Rasam Base:
In a saucepan, combine the cooked horse gram, tamarind water, and tomato puree. Add turmeric powder, roasted cumin powder, roasted coriander powder, asafoetida (hing), and black pepper powder. Stir well to mix all the spices and ingredients. Season with salt and red chili powder to taste. Allow the rasam to simmer on medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, letting all the flavors come together and thicken slightly. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
In a small tempering pan, heat the ghee. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add the crushed garlic cloves and sauté for about 20 seconds until they release a fragrant aroma. Toss in the curry leaves and sauté for another 10 seconds. Turn off the heat once the tempering is ready. -
Combine the Tempering with Rasam:
Once the rasam has cooked to perfection, pour the prepared tempering over it. Mix well, allowing the flavors to blend into the soup. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves to add a burst of color and freshness. Serve the hot Kollu Rasam with steamed rice and a side of vegetable stir-fry (like Beetroot Thoran) for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Kollu Rasam pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making it a staple in traditional South Indian meals. For added texture and flavor, serve it alongside a vegetable stir-fry like Beetroot Thoran or any dry curry of your choice. This simple yet hearty soup makes for a nourishing and fulfilling lunch or dinner, perfect for any day of the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Protein | ~5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | ~25 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | ~5 grams |
| Fat | ~8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | ~2 grams |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
| Potassium | ~400 mg |
| Vitamin C | ~15% DV |
| Iron | ~10% DV |
Health Benefits of Kollu Rasam
- Digestive Aid: Horse gram (Kollu) is known for its high fiber content, which aids digestion and helps in managing weight.
- Rich in Protein: A great source of plant-based protein, Kollu Rasam is beneficial for vegetarians and those looking to boost protein intake.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: The spices used, like turmeric and cumin, have powerful anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce bodily inflammation.
- Boosts Immunity: With ingredients like garlic, curry leaves, and tamarind, Kollu Rasam provides a rich array of antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.
- Low in Calories: This rasam is light and low in calories, making it ideal for those on a weight-loss journey.
Conclusion
Kollu Rasam is a perfect blend of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re looking to try a traditional South Indian dish or in need of a healthy, comforting meal, this recipe has you covered. The addition of horse gram makes it unique, offering numerous health benefits while still delivering the warm, homey feel that rasam is famous for. Enjoy this easy-to-make soup with rice and vegetable stir-fry for a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition!
