πŸ§„ Garlic Rasam

(Poondu Rasam)

Simple, soothing, and nourishing

Spice Level: 🌢️🌢️
Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Serves: 3–4
Calories (approx): 223 kcal

πŸ₯„ Sacred Spoons & Simmered Memories

🌿 Introduction

Garlic Rasam (Milagu Poondu Rasam) is a spicy, tangy, and healing South Indian broth β€” a comforting soup that soothes the throat and warms the soul. Known for its medicinal properties, this peppery rasam is often served with steamed rice, crispy papad, and pickle β€” the ultimate cure for rainy or cold days.

β€œA simple, spiced elixir that makes the spirit whole” β€” Author

Garlic Rasam

Photo by Stirred By Spice

πŸ“ Ingredients

For the Rasam Base

  • 1 tsp Jeera (Cumin seeds)

  • 2–3 Green chilies

  • 1 Tomato, cubed

  • Β½ tsp Somph (Fennel seeds)

  • 1 tsp Black peppercorns

  • 1 tsp Coriander seeds

  • 5–6 Garlic cloves

  • 1 tsp Tamarind paste (Tamico)

  • Β½ tsp Turmeric powder

  • Salt – to taste

  • 3 cups Water

For Tempering

  • Β½ tsp Red chili flakes or 2 Dry red chilies

  • Β½ tsp Mustard seeds

  • 5–6 Curry leaves

  • 1 tbsp Ghee

  • A pinch Hing (Asafoetida)

For Garnish

  • A few Coriander leaves (Cilantro)

🍽️ Instructions

  • Prepare Rasam Base – Grind peppercorns, cumin, fennel, coriander, and garlic into a coarse powder.

  • Mix Tamarind Base – Whisk tamarind paste in 1 cup warm water and strain.

  • Simmer Rasam – Saute green chillies & tomatoes in a teaspoon of oil first.To this, then add spice mix, tamarind water, 2 more cups of water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil and let it foam gently.

  • Tempering Magic – In a small pan, heat ghee; splutter mustard seeds, add chilies, hing, and curry leaves. Pour over rasam and cover to infuse.

  • Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice, papad, and pickle.

🍷 Optional Serving Notes

Extra Ghee: Adding a teaspoon of melted ghee into the serving bowl just before eating

can enhance the taste and potentially reduce the intensity of the spice

πŸ’¬ Soulful Note

This rasam reminds every South Indian of home β€” the aroma of pepper and garlic simmering away while monsoon winds lash outside.

πŸ“š Cook’s Wisdom / FAQs

Cook's Wisdom

Tip: For a flavorful garlic rasam, the key is to use freshly crushed spices and to avoid over-boiling the final mixture.

  • No Rasam Powder? No worries β€” this version is made fresh with ground spices.You can try my homemade rasam powder too.

  • Storage Tip: Keeps 2 days in the fridge; freeze thickened base for easy weekday soup.

  • Pair With: Steamed rice, poriyal, or spicy chicken fry.

πŸ“Š Nutrition (Per Serving β€” Approx.)

  • Calories 223

  • Protein 5g

  • Carbs 25g

  • Fat 7g

  • Fiber 3g

πŸƒπŸŒΆπŸƒ The Bottom Line

A cup of garlic rasam is like a warm hug β€” clearing colds, comforting hearts, and celebrating spice in its simplest form.

🧑 Meet the Heart Behind the Spice

Maya Shetty – Stirred By Spice Author Photo

Hi, I’m Maya Shetty β€” cook, storyteller, and spice lover.

Through Stirred By Spice, I share recipes that warm both the kitchen and the heart β€” where simple ingredients and warm flavors turn everyday meals into moments of connection.

πŸ’¬ I’d Love to Hear From You!

Your words, memories, and reflections mean the world to me.
Share your thoughts using the form below β€” I read every message.

Β© 2025 Stirred By Spice | Designed with warmth 🌢️ & storiess πŸͺ”. All rights reserved