Shringeri Rasam Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

1 Jun, 2023

Looking for a delicious and flavorful South Indian soup? Try our easy-to-follow Shringeri Rasam recipe, made with lentils, tamarind, and a unique blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy night in, this tangy and spicy dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Follow our step-by-step instructions to make this authentic and traditional dish in the comfort of your own home.

Shringeri Rasam

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Indian
Category: Soup
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 5
Calories: 172 calories

About this recipe

Shringeri Rasam or Sringeri Rasam is a classic South Indian dish that has gained immense popularity across the world for its tangy and spicy flavor. It is a thin and soupy dish made with tamarind, tomato, spices, and dal (lentils), which gives it a unique texture and taste.

One of the key ingredients of Shringeri Rasam is the rasam powder, which is a blend of various spices like coriander seeds, cumin seeds, pepper, and red chili. It not only adds flavor to the rasam but also provides several health benefits due to the presence of these spices.

The preparation of Shringeri Rasam is relatively simple and requires minimal cooking skills. The toor dal is pressure cooked and then mashed to give it a smooth consistency. The tamarind pulp, rasam powder, and chopped tomatoes are then added to the dal and simmered until it thickens.

The use of tamarind in the recipe gives the rasam its tangy flavor, while the addition of curry leaves and dried red chilies enhances the overall taste and aroma of the dish. It is usually served hot with steamed rice and makes for a perfect comfort food during cold or rainy weather.

Apart from being delicious, Shringeri Rasam is also a nutritious dish. Toor dal is rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. The various spices used in the rasam powder have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it a perfect remedy for common ailments like cold and cough.

Shringeri Rasam is a versatile and healthy dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be combined to create a flavorful and wholesome dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Recipe origin and background

Shringeri Rasam has its origins in the town of Sringeri, which is located in the Chikmagalur district of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. Sringeri is a well-known pilgrimage center and is home to the famous Sringeri Sharada Peetham, one of the four major Advaita Vedanta monasteries in India.

The recipe for Shringeri Rasam has been passed down through generations of families in Sringeri and the surrounding regions. It is a traditional South Indian recipe that is often served in homes and restaurants in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.

The exact history and origin of the recipe are not known, but it is believed to have been created by the local communities in Sringeri as a way to use the locally available ingredients like tamarind, tomato, and dal to make a flavorful and nutritious dish.

Over time, the popularity of Shringeri Rasam has grown beyond the borders of Karnataka and has become a favorite among South Indian cuisine lovers all over the world. The unique blend of spices and flavors in the dish has made it a popular comfort food and a go-to dish during the rainy season or when feeling under the weather.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in traditional and regional cuisine, and Shringeri Rasam has emerged as a popular dish in this context. Many food bloggers, chefs, and restaurants are now experimenting with the recipe and adding their own twists to it while still maintaining its authentic flavor and texture.

Why try this Shringeri Rasam recipe?

If you're a fan of South Indian cuisine, then Shringeri Rasam is a must-try dish! Here are a few reasons why you should give it a try:

Unique and flavorful taste: Shringeri Rasam has a tangy and spicy taste that is unlike any other dish. The blend of spices and the sourness from the tamarind give it a unique and complex flavor that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Nutritious: Shringeri Rasam is made with toor dal, which is high in protein, fiber, and essential minerals. The various spices used in the dish also have several health benefits and can help boost your immunity.
Easy to make: The recipe for Shringeri Rasam is relatively simple and easy to follow, even if you're not an experienced cook. With just a few basic ingredients and some simple cooking techniques, you can make a delicious and nutritious meal in no time.
Versatile: Shringeri Rasam can be served with steamed rice or as a soup on its own. You can also add vegetables like okra or drumstick to make it a more wholesome and filling meal.
Comfort food: Shringeri Rasam is the perfect comfort food, especially during the rainy season or when feeling under the weather. The warm and tangy flavors of the dish are sure to lift your mood and provide comfort and nourishment.

Shringeri Rasam is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and versatile in its use. It is a perfect dish to add to your repertoire of South Indian cuisine, and once you try it, you're sure to come back for more!

What does Shringeri Rasam taste like?

Shringeri Rasam is a thin and soupy dish that has a tangy, spicy, and slightly sour taste. It has a unique flavor profile due to the combination of various spices and ingredients used in its preparation.

The use of tamarind gives the rasam its tangy and slightly sour taste, while the addition of spices like coriander seeds, cumin seeds, pepper, and red chili gives it a spicy and flavorful taste. The dal used in the recipe also contributes to the texture of the dish, giving it a creamy and slightly thick consistency.

Shringeri Rasam has a well-balanced taste that is both refreshing and comforting. The tanginess of the tamarind and the spiciness of the spices are complemented by the creaminess of the dal, creating a harmonious flavor that is both satisfying and delicious.

What is in Shringeri Rasam?

The ingredients needed to make Shringeri Rasam are:

Tamarind - Tamarind is a sour fruit that is commonly used in South Indian cuisine to add tanginess to dishes.
Toor dal - Toor dal, also known as split pigeon peas, is a type of lentil that is high in protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
Tomato - Tomatoes are used to add flavor and texture to the rasam.
Curry leaves - Curry leaves are a staple in South Indian cooking and are used to add flavor and aroma to the dish.
Coriander leaves - Coriander leaves, also known as cilantro, are used as a garnish and to add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the rasam.
Cumin seeds - Cumin seeds are a spice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine and adds a warm and earthy flavor to the rasam.
Black pepper - Black pepper adds a spicy and pungent flavor to the dish.
Red chili - Red chili adds heat and spice to the rasam.
Asafoetida - Asafoetida, also known as hing, is a resin with a strong, pungent aroma and is used to add flavor and digestive benefits to the dish.
Salt - Salt is added to enhance the flavor of the rasam.
Oil - Oil is used for cooking the spices and tempering the rasam.
Water - Water is added to the rasam to create a thin and soupy consistency.

Equipment required for this recipe

Saucepan - A medium-sized saucepan is needed to cook the dal and tomato mixture. A deep, heavy-bottomed pot can be used instead of a saucepan.
Pressure cooker - A pressure cooker can be used to cook the toor dal faster and make it soft and creamy. If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook the dal in a pot on the stove, but it will take longer.
Spice grinder or mortar and pestle - A spice grinder or mortar and pestle can be used to grind the cumin seeds and black pepper. If you don't have a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, you can use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to crush the cumin seeds and black pepper.
Ladle - A ladle is used to stir the rasam and serve it. A spoon or spatula can be used instead of a ladle.
Cutting board and knife - A cutting board and knife are needed to chop the tomatoes and coriander leaves. A plate can be used as a makeshift cutting board, and any sharp knife can be used to chop the ingredients.
Strainer - A strainer is needed to strain the tamarind pulp and remove any impurities. A cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel can be used as a substitute for a strainer.
Tongs - Tongs can be used to handle the hot saucepan or pressure cooker. A pair of heat-resistant gloves or a folded kitchen towel can be used instead of tongs.
Serving bowls - Serving bowls are needed to serve the rasam. Any shallow bowl or plate can be used as a substitute for serving bowls.

How to make Shringeri Rasam

Make a delicious and tangy Shringeri Rasam at home with our easy recipe. A flavorful South Indian soup made with lentils, tamarind, and spices.

Ingredients

1/2 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
1 medium-sized tomato
1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
2 teaspoons rasam powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
2-3 cups water
A few curry leaves
2-3 dried red chilies
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
2 tablespoons ghee or oil
Coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions

Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and pressure cook it with 2 cups of water and a pinch of turmeric powder until it's soft and mushy. Mash the dal with a spoon or a ladle and keep it aside.
Soak the tamarind in warm water for 10-15 minutes and extract the pulp.
Cut the tomato into small pieces.
In a pan, heat the ghee or oil on medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Fry until the mustard seeds pop.
Add the chopped tomato, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomato becomes soft and mushy.
Add the tamarind pulp, rasam powder, and 1 cup of water. Mix well and bring it to a boil.
Add the mashed toor dal and mix well. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the rasam becomes slightly thick.
Turn off the heat and garnish with coriander leaves.

Your Shringeri Rasam is ready to be served hot with rice. Enjoy!

How to serve Shringeri Rasam

After making the Shringeri Rasam recipe, you can follow these steps to serve it:

Turn off the heat and let the rasam cool for a few minutes. You can let it cool in the saucepan or transfer it to a serving bowl.
Garnish the rasam with some chopped coriander leaves.
Serve the rasam hot with steamed rice, some papadums or a side dish of your choice. You can also serve it as a soup or appetizer.
If you have any leftover rasam, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the leftover rasam in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Serve the reheated rasam hot with some freshly chopped coriander leaves on top.
Enjoy the delicious and comforting flavors of Shringeri Rasam!

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 578 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Shringeri Rasam, Shringeri Rasam Recipe, Sringeri Rasam Recipe, Top rated

What to serve Shringeri Rasam with

Shringeri Rasam is a delicious South Indian dish that is often served with steamed rice as a part of the main course. However, there are many other dishes that you can serve with Shringeri Rasam to make a complete meal. Some popular options include:

Papadums - Papadums are crispy lentil wafers that are a popular side dish in South Indian cuisine. They can be served alongside the rasam to add some crunch and texture to the meal.
Steamed vegetables - You can serve steamed vegetables such as carrots, beans, and broccoli as a healthy and nutritious side dish with Shringeri Rasam.
Dosa or idli - Dosa and idli are popular South Indian breakfast dishes, but they can also be served as a side dish with rasam. They are made from fermented batter of rice and lentils, and are served with coconut chutney and sambar.
Poriyal - Poriyal is a South Indian stir-fry dish made with vegetables such as cabbage, beans, and carrots. It can be served as a side dish with rasam.
Potato fry - Potato fry is a crispy and flavorful dish made by frying boiled potatoes with spices. It can be served as a side dish with rasam.
Raita - Raita is a yogurt-based side dish that can help cool down the spiciness of the rasam. It can be made with cucumber, onion, tomato or any other vegetable of your choice.
Pickles - Pickles are a popular condiment in Indian cuisine and can be served with rasam to add some tanginess and flavor to the meal.

These are some of the dishes that can be served with Shringeri Rasam, but the possibilities are endless. You can experiment with different side dishes and find your favorite combination.

My recommendations and tips

Use fresh ingredients: Make sure you use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly grated coconut, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and fresh curry leaves will make a big difference in the taste of the rasam.
Adjust the spiciness: Adjust the amount of green chili according to your preference. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use fewer chilies or remove the seeds before adding them to the rasam.
Be careful with the tamarind: Tamarind can be quite sour, so it's important to use it in moderation. Taste the rasam as you add the tamarind paste to make sure it's not too sour. You can always add more if needed, but it's difficult to remove the excess sourness once it's been added.
Don't overcook the rasam: Overcooking the rasam can cause it to become too thick and lose its flavor. Once you've added the cooked dal and spices, simmer the rasam for just a few minutes until it's heated through.
Serve hot: Shringeri Rasam is best served hot. If you're serving it as a part of a meal, make sure to heat it up just before serving.
Experiment with garnishes: The rasam can be garnished with chopped coriander leaves, grated coconut, or even a few fried curry leaves for added flavor and texture.
Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftover rasam, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Have fun and be creative: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavors to make the recipe your own. You can add more or less of any ingredient to suit your taste preferences.

How to store Shringeri Rasam

Allow the rasam to cool down to room temperature.
Transfer the rasam to an airtight container.
Store the container in the refrigerator.
Shringeri Rasam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Before reheating the rasam, you may need to add some water to thin it out as it will thicken while refrigerating. Reheat it on the stovetop over low-medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through. You may also add some salt and lemon juice to adjust the flavor before serving.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Tamarind paste substitute: If you don't have tamarind paste, you can substitute it with lime juice or lemon juice. Use 1 tablespoon of lime or lemon juice per teaspoon of tamarind paste.
Toor dal substitute: You can substitute toor dal with other lentils such as moong dal, masoor dal or chana dal. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of lentil you use.
Tomatoes substitute: If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomatoes or tomato puree. Use 1/2 cup of canned tomatoes or tomato puree for 2 medium-sized tomatoes.
Asafoetida substitute: Asafoetida can be substituted with garlic powder or onion powder. Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder instead of 1/8 teaspoon of asafoetida.
Curry leaves substitute: If you can't find fresh curry leaves, you can use dried curry leaves. Use 1/3 the amount of dried curry leaves as the recipe calls for fresh curry leaves.
Green chilies substitute: If you don't have green chilies, you can use red chili powder or cayenne pepper. Use 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper for every green chili.

Remarks

In conclusion, Shringeri Rasam is a delicious and flavorful South Indian soup made with lentils, tamarind, and a unique blend of spices.

It is a perfect comfort food, especially on a cold or rainy day. With its tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet taste, it is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

By following the steps mentioned in the recipe, you can make this authentic and traditional dish in the comfort of your own home.

So, gather the ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this delicious Shringeri Rasam with your loved ones.