Recipe

Authentic Tamil Nadu Thanjavur Poondu Rasam with Steamed Ponni Rice

A deeply comforting and spiced garlic-infused broth that heals the soul. Served piping hot over warm steamed Ponni rice for a traditional South Indian meal.

35min Total Time
4 Servings
Tamil Nadu Cuisine
Recipe
1
Coarsely crush the black peppercorns and cumin seeds using a mortar and pestle.
2
Heat sesame oil in a heavy-bottomed vessel, add mustard seeds and let them sputter.
3
Add asafoetida, dry red chillies, and curry leaves, followed by the crushed garlic cloves.
4
Sauté until the garlic turns golden brown and releases a rich aroma.
5
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften completely.
6
Pour in the tamarind extract, add turmeric powder, and let it simmer until the raw smell disappears.
7
Add the crushed pepper-cumin mixture and four cups of water, bringing it to a gentle froth.
8
Turn off the heat just before it reaches a rolling boil, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot with steamed Ponni rice.
Ingredients
15 cloves of peeled garlic, crushed
2 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
A small lemon-sized ball of tamarind, soaked and extracted
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1 sprig fresh curry leaves
2 dry red chillies
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
A pinch of asafoetida
Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Salt to taste
4 cups water
*This AI-generated recipe may contain inaccuracies.