Introduction to Mulligatawny Soup and Rasam

Mulligatawny, a beloved Rajasthani dish, is a delightful and slightly spiced vegetable soup. Its rich flavor and comforting aroma make it a favorite in many households. This culinary masterpiece combines the warmth of rasam with the subtle spices of mulligatawny. In this article, we will explore a simple and delicious recipe to make your Mulligatawny soup rasam at home.

The Simplest Best Recipe

Creating a perfect Mulligatawny soup rasam is both an art and a science. Here’s a straightforward method to prepare this dish:

Ingredients

Tamarind (soaked) Coriander seeds (1 spoon) Cumin seeds (1 spoon) Pepper (1 spoon) 1 red chilli A handful of curry leaves 4-5 garlic pods 1 tomato Turmeric powder (a pinch) Curry leaves (a handful) Coriander leaves (a handful) Salt (to taste) Water (as needed) Hing (asafoetida) and mustard seeds (for seasoning) Oil (for seasoning)

Preparation Steps

Softhe tamarind by soaking it for a while; about the size of a large lemon. This helps release its flavor.

Grind the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, pepper, 1 red chilli, a handful of curry leaves, 4-5 garlic pods, and one tomato. You can make the paste a bit coarse, ensuring that the flavors are well-spiced and not excessively fine.

Extract the pulp from the soaked tamarind and add one more smashed tomato (cut into pieces). Add the grounded paste to the tamarind and tomato mixture.

Add a pinch of turmeric powder, a handful of curry leaves, coriander leaves, and enough salt to taste. Adjust the consistency with water as needed.

Season the soup with asafoetida and mustard seeds in hot oil. A single spoon is sufficient for this purpose.

Place the pot on a stove and keep it on a low flame. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then switch off the heat.

Additional Tips and Variations

Tip 1: For a richer flavor, you can add some fenugreek leaves (methi) and mustard seeds to the rasam just before it simmers.

Tip 2: Adding a touch of coconut milk or yogurt at the end can make the rasam more creamy and flavorful.

Variation: To make it more nutritious, include a mix of vegetables such as spinach, fenugreek, carrots, and kidney beans.

Conclusion

Making Mulligatawny soup rasam isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about balancing flavors and spices to create a harmonious dish that pleases the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe provides a straightforward guide to recreate the authentic taste of this Indian vegetable gem in your kitchen.