One of grandma’s time tested cures for the flu or a cold, the Thuthuvalai rasam must definitely be added to the home chef’s repertoire. This herbal concoction is a South India speciality, made from the Thuthuvalai creeper, or Climbing Brinjal, a medicinal herb commonly used in Ayurvedic remedies. This recipe however packs equal flavour to goodness with every sip.

Thuthuvalai Rasam

Thuthuvalai leaves – A handful
Tamarind – 1/2 Tablespoon
Cumin seeds – 1 Tablespoon
Coriander – 1 Tablespoon
Red chilli – 1
Pepper powder – 1/2 Tablespoon
Garlic – 10 cloves
Small onion – 5-7
Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
Curry Leaves – 5-7
Salt – As necessary

METHOD

1. Dissolve the tamarind in 1 cup of water and keep aside.
2. Fry the thuthuvalai leaves, cumin seeds, coriander, red chilli and pepper powder in a little amount of cooking oil.
3. Once cooled, grind them in a Ultra Mixer Grinder along with the garlic cloves.
4. Mix the paste in the tamarind solution.
5. In a little amount of oil, fry the mustard seeds and curry leaves.
6. Add the tamarind + paste solution and bring it almost to boil.
7. Add salt for taste.

As the world advances towards more high tech lives, experts in health and nutrition advise us to go back to our roots when it comes to our food. Eat what your grandmother used to eat as a child they say. This recipe is definitely one to bookmark!