1Tamarind, small lemon-sized piece
3 cupsWater
2 tbspToor dal (split pigeon peas)
6 to 8Garlic cloves, lightly crushed with skin
1 1/2 tspBlack peppercorns
1 tspCumin seeds
1Tomato, medium, finely chopped
¼ tspTurmeric powder
1½ tspRasam powder
to tasteSalt
8 to 10Fresh curry leaves
1 tbspFresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
1½ tspGhee
½ tspMustard seeds
1Dried red chilli, broken
a pinchAsafoetida (hing)