I had blocked nose yesterday and felt that I might be coming down with flu. Luckily, there was no fever and therefore it might not be a symptom of H1N1 (Swine Flu). LOL!
Rasam or Indian Spicy and Hot Pepper Soup is a great remedy to alleviate the symptoms of flu especially if you have blocked nose or uneasy throat. I feel ok today after taking Rasam last night.
It is easy to prepare and taste very good especially to people who are into hot, sour and spicy food! This is also a good remedy to cool down the body and ease digestion after a hearty meal!
This is my modified and simplified recipe for Rasam.
Ingredients
Water, 2 rice bowls
Cumin (Jintan Putih) Powder, 1 teaspoon
Coriander (Ketumbar) Powder, 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper corn, 6 pcs, crushed
Curry Leaves, 3 stalks, use only the leaves
Garlic, 1 bulb, crushed and remove skins
Onions, 2 pcs, cut into slices
Dry chillies, 3 pcs, soaked in water and remove seeds
Salt to taste
Tamarind paste, 1 table spoon, add water to extract juice
Vegetable oil
Heat oil in pan, fry garlic, dry chillies and onions until fragrant. When the onions cameralize a little add the curry leaves and water. Then add cumin, coriander, tamarind juice, black pepper corn and salt to taste. Serve with white rice.