Watermelon Rasam Recipe
Embark on a culinary journey with this refreshing and unique Watermelon Rasam, a delightful South Indian dish that perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch on a warm day. This invigorating soup incorporates the natural sweetness of watermelon with the classic elements of rasam, providing not only a burst of flavor but also a cooling effect to beat the heat. Serve it alongside steamed rice and a hearty side dish for a complete meal experience that is both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Watermelon (juice) | 2 cups |
| Tamarind (water) | 1 cup |
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic (crushed) | 6 cloves |
| Rasam Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (crushed) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera, crushed) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 2 teaspoons |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 6 leaves |
| Coriander leaves (Dhania) for garnishing | To taste |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 lemon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information Table
| Nutritional Element | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
To prepare the Watermelon Rasam, follow these simple yet detailed steps that ensure a delightful outcome.
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Prepare Watermelon Juice: Begin by cutting the watermelon into manageable pieces, discarding any seeds. Place the pieces in a blender and blend until smooth. Once blended, strain the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to extract the fresh juice, discarding any pulp.
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Make Tamarind Water: In a separate bowl, soak a small piece of tamarind in warm water for about 10-15 minutes, then extract the tamarind juice by squeezing it with your hands, ensuring to remove any fibrous material.
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Cook the Dal: Rinse the Arhar dal under cold water until the water runs clear. Place the washed dal in a pressure cooker with enough water (about 2-3 cups). Close the lid and cook for about three whistles over medium heat. Once done, turn off the flame and allow the pressure to release naturally. When safe, open the lid and mash the dal thoroughly using a fork or masher until it reaches a smooth consistency.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the tamarind juice and watermelon juice. Stir in the crushed garlic, black peppercorns, and crushed cumin seeds to this juice mixture. Next, add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, rasam powder, asafoetida, and salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
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Cook the Rasam: Pour the combined juice mixture into the mashed dal in a pan. Heat over medium flame, stirring occasionally. If the mixture appears too thick, add a little water to achieve your desired consistency. Allow the rasam to boil gently until it becomes frothy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Prepare the Tempering: In a separate small pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter. Then add the curry leaves and fry for a few seconds until they become fragrant.
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Final Touches: Once the rasam has boiled and is aromatic, turn off the heat and add the prepared tempering directly into the rasam. Squeeze the lemon juice into the mixture and give it a final stir.
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Serve: Garnish the rasam with fresh coriander leaves before serving. This vibrant and flavorful Watermelon Rasam is best enjoyed hot with steamed rice and a side of Beetroot Thoran drizzled with a dollop of ghee for an added touch of richness.
Enjoy Your Meal!
This Watermelon Rasam recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to incorporate refreshing watermelon into a traditional dish. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a hot summer day or a quick lunch option. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures that each spoonful is a delightful experience, offering a perfect harmony of flavors that are quintessentially South Indian. Enjoy this dish with your loved ones, and let the culinary magic unfold!
