Food

Ways to Enjoy Rasam: With Rice, as a Soup, or as a Flavourful Side

We’ve been eating rasam for ages. Thus, we now have our own different ways of enjoying it. A great rasam recipe can provide you with many health benefits, too. Also, paired with rice, it’s a comfort meal for many. 

It’ll take you back to simpler times and provide an authentic South Indian experience without fail. Let’s discuss the different and innovative ways of having rasam. We’ll also introduce you to the flavour profiles you can play with. That way, you can try something new the next time you’re shopping groceries.

What Makes Rasam Special?

The beauty of rasam lies in its simplicity. The elements are basic, and you can find them anywhere while shopping groceries. However, the magical rasam recipe will elevate the flavour, making it complex and layered.

Yet another factor is its healing properties. The ingredients like turmeric, garlic, tamarind, etc., are nourishing and help strengthen your immunity. Moreover, it has served as a traditional remedy for seasonal flu and various digestive issues.

The Different Ways to Have Rasam

There is no set way of enjoying rasam. You can have it in different ways based on your appetite, requirements, and mood. Check out the most common ways below:

Rasam and Rice: A Delicious Combo

The most common and preferred combination of rasam is having it with rice. You can simply steam some rice and enjoy it with rasam. Rice has no distinct flavour. But the difference in the textures will make your rasam recipe taste even better.

People often have it with their hands for an authentic feel. Moreover, add a spoonful of ghee to the mix. Wait, there’s more! You can also keep some papad or “papadum” on the side for a crunchy texture.

Rasam as a Soup: Nourishing

When you’re sick, or the weather is particularly cold, keep things simple. Rasam is a meal on its own, and you can enjoy its soupy texture. With the perfect rasam recipe, you can taste the spice, tanginess, and warmth.

You can add more black pepper, garlic, and cumin to open your nasal passage. It’ll also aid in better gut health and digestion. Alternatively, add more tomatoes for antioxidants. It’s best to drink it as hot as possible if you’re dealing with symptoms of flu.

Rasam: A Flavoursome Side-Dish

If not the main element, then rasam can also make for a tasty side dish. It’s versatile, and you can pair it with dosa and uttapam. Additionally, you can dip some idli into your Rasam bowl and enjoy it with chutney.

Clearly, there are no rules for eating rasam. You can also experiment and find something that’s unique to your taste buds.

Balancing the Different Rasam Flavours

There’s a hint of many different flavours and notes in a rasam recipe. You can tweak them as you want to:

  • Tomato: The classic version of rasam with ripe tomatoes makes it tangy.
  • Pineapple: Adding pineapples will give the spicy broth a hint of sweetness.
  • Garlic: Adding more garlic will make the rasam more pungent, strong, and spicy.
  • Lemon: Lemon will make rasam fresh and citrusy. 

Conclusion

We all have diverse palettes and moods, and rasam is a great choice for every mood. Remember to buy ingredients for rasam the next time you’re shopping groceries.