Peppery Garlic Rasam relies on restraint rather than intensity. Crushed pepper and cumin deliver warmth, garlic adds depth, and tamarind keeps the broth sharp. The dal stays light, acting as a binder rather than a thickener. Careful heat control preserves aroma, making the rasam clear, fragrant, and deeply restorative.
Soak tamarind in warm water and extract the juice by squeezing gently. This liquid should taste sharp but not harsh. Set it aside without reducing or heating, as early boiling dulls the acidity that rasam depends on for balance.
Description - Step 2
Dal Softening
Pressure cook toor dal with water until fully soft. Mash lightly to break the grains while keeping the texture loose. The dal should flow easily, acting as a body-builder rather than turning the rasam heavy or opaque.
Description - Step 3
Spice Crushing
Crush black peppercorns and cumin seeds using a mortar and pestle. Aim for uneven granules, not powder. This uneven texture releases aroma gradually during cooking and keeps the pepper’s heat bright instead of aggressive.
Description - Step 4
Rasam Build-Up
Combine tamarind extract, remaining water, tomato, turmeric, garlic, curry leaves, and salt in a saucepan. Simmer gently until the raw tamarind aroma fades and tomatoes soften. Avoid boiling hard; clarity and aroma matter more than speed here.
Description - Step 5
Spice Integration
Add crushed pepper, cumin, and rasam powder. Stir gently and let it simmer briefly so spices bloom without overpowering. Add mashed dal and mix lightly, adjusting water to keep the rasam thin and pourable.
Description - Step 6
Heat Control
Watch for light froth forming on the surface and a sharp, peppery aroma rising. Switch off the heat immediately. Continued boiling at this stage flattens the pepper heat and dulls garlic’s aroma.
Description - Step 7
Ghee Tempering
Heat the ghee in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle fully. Add dried red chilli and asafoetida, then pour the tempering straight into the rasam. This seals aroma and adds warmth without heaviness.
Description - Step 8
Resting Finish
Add chopped coriander, cover, and let the rasam rest. This pause allows garlic, pepper, and ghee to settle into a rounded, cohesive flavour before serving.