Lemon Rasam is a light, tangy South Indian soup that combines the zestiness of fresh lemon juice with aromatic spices.
Known for its soothing and digestive properties, this rasam is often enjoyed as a comforting side dish or as a soup on its own.
Made with simple ingredients, it’s a quick and nutritious addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold and Refreshing Flavor: The perfect balance of tangy lemon, fresh tomatoes, and the warm, aromatic spices of cumin, turmeric, and pepper makes this Lemon Rasam a refreshing treat for your taste buds.
Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple to make and comes together in no time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights when you’re craving something comforting yet flavorful.
Nutrient-Rich: With ingredients like toor dal, ginger, and pepper, this soup is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and digestive benefits that support your overall health.
Customizable: Adjust the level of tanginess or spiciness to suit your personal taste. Add more lemon for extra zest or chillies for an added kick!
Perfect for All Occasions: Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with rice, Lemon Rasam adds a comforting touch to any meal and is perfect for both casual dinners or festive gatherings.
Lemon Rasam
- 05 Dec 2024
- 0 Comments
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil or coconut oil
- 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1/2 tbp Turmeric Powder
- 1/4 tsp Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder adjust to taste
- 1 Tomato medium-sized, diced
- 1/4 cup Toor Dal (pigeon peas)
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth or water
- 1/2 tsp Tamarind Paste
- Salt to taste
- 1 Lemon juiced
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- Fresh Coriander for garnish
- Curry Leaves optional
- Hing (asafoetida) a pinch for extra flavor
Instructions
Cook the Toor Dal:
- Begin by rinsing the toor dal thoroughly. In a pressure cooker or a saucepan, cook the dal with 2 cups of water until soft and fully cooked (about 4–5 whistles in a pressure cooker).
Prepare the Rasam Base:
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves (if using). Once the mustard seeds begin to splutter, add the chopped tomato and sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
Add the Spices:
- Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another minute to release the flavors of the spices.
Add Tamarind and Cook:
- Add the tamarind paste and the cooked toor dal to the saucepan. Pour in about 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Finish with Lemon Juice and Pepper:
- Once the rasam is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and pepper. Adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt or chili powder.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or as a standalone soup.
Tips and Variations
- Adjust the tanginess by varying the amount of lemon juice according to your taste.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of rasam powder or sambar powder.
- If you like a thinner consistency, add more water while simmering.
- Use ghee for tempering to enhance the aroma and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy Lemon Rasam as a light soup on a cold day.
- Serve it with hot steamed rice, papad, or a vegetable stir-fry for a comforting South Indian meal.
Nutritional Benefits
- Toor Dal: Rich in protein and dietary fiber.
- Lemon Juice: Packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Ginger and Spices: Aid digestion and boost immunity.
- This soup is low in calories yet high in flavor and nutrients.
Lemon Rasam is a flavorful, tangy South Indian soup that combines the rich taste of toor dal with the refreshing citrusy zing of lemon. With its aromatic spices, this soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also offers digestive benefits and nutritional value. Whether you’re enjoying it as a stand-alone dish or pairing it with rice, this recipe is simple, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.
So, why wait? Try making this easy and nourishing Lemon Rasam today! Whether you’re looking for a light soup to cleanse your palate or a flavorful addition to your meal, this rasam will surely delight. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below and tag us when you try it!
