Amla (Nellikai) Rasam Recipe — A Tangy & Healthy South Indian Soup
Introduction
Amla Rasam, also known as Nellikai Rasam, is a unique South Indian dish that combines the tangy, citrusy flavor of amla (Indian gooseberry) with the comforting, spicy taste of rasam. Amla is known for its high Vitamin C content and numerous health benefits, making it an excellent addition to your diet, especially during colder months when immunity-boosting ingredients are most needed. This rasam is not only delicious but also a wonderful remedy for digestion and immunity support.
Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe for a delicious, tangy Amla Rasam!
Ingredients:
4–5 fresh amla (Indian gooseberries), deseeded and chopped
1 medium tomato, chopped
2–3 garlic cloves, crushed
1–2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
1 tbsp rasam powder (homemade or store-bought)
½ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp black peppercorns
A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Salt to taste
1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) or oil
½ tsp mustard seeds
A few curry leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Amla Mixture
Add the chopped amla and tomato to a blender with a bit of water and blend into a smooth paste. This will add a rich, tangy base to the rasam.
2. Make Rasam Base
In a deep pot, add the amla-tomato paste and 2–3 cups of water. Add crushed garlic, slit green chilies, turmeric powder, and rasam powder.
Mix well and let it come to a gentle boil on medium heat. Allow it to simmer for 5–10 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
3. Prepare the Tempering
While the rasam is simmering, heat ghee or oil in a small pan.
Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add cumin seeds, black peppercorns, and curry leaves.
Once they start to release their aroma, pour this tempering over the simmering rasam.
4. Garnish and Serve
Add chopped coriander leaves and salt to the rasam. Stir well and simmer for another 2 minutes.
Adjust the consistency with more water if desired; Amla Rasam can be served thin as a soup or thicker as a side with rice.
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve Amla Rasam hot, either as a soup or paired with steamed rice. It’s especially comforting with a dollop of ghee on top when served with rice.
Health Benefits of Amla Rasam
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a powerhouse of nutrients. Here are a few of the health benefits it brings to this rasam:
Rich in Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and helps the body fight infections.
Aids Digestion: Amla is known for its digestive properties, while the spices in rasam, like cumin and black pepper, help stimulate digestion.
Anti-inflammatory: The natural antioxidants in amla and the spices can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Detoxifying: The tanginess of amla aids in detoxifying the liver and improving metabolism.
Tips for the Perfect Amla Rasam
For extra flavor, roast the black peppercorns and cumin seeds before grinding them for the tempering.
Adjust the spice levels to your taste; if you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of rasam powder or green chilies.
Try adding a small piece of jaggery if you enjoy a hint of sweetness in your rasam; it balances the tanginess of amla well.
Amla Rasam is a great recipe for a quick, nutritious meal and is an excellent way to enjoy the unique, healthful flavor of amla. This dish is a wonderful addition to any South Indian meal, providing both warmth and nourishment in every sip.
And also don’t forget check out our authentic and natural spices on Nischithdelicacies
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