Rasam Powder Recipe - A Super Versatile,
Flavourful Southern Indian Favourite

Rasam powder is a flavour-packed essential blend used in kitchens throughout Southern India. Often used to flavour the soup of the same name, it's also very versatile and can be used with many other dishes and it takes just minutes to make.

What You'll Need: (makes about 8-9 tablespoons)

3 tbsp toor dal (pigeon pea)
3 tbsp coriander seeds
4 tsp cumin seeds
1 tbsp fenugreek seeds
1 tbsp white peppercorns (or black)
2 tsp turmeric powder
2 tsp chilli powder
2 tsp black/brown mustard seeds
1 tsp asofoetida powder
10-20 curry leaves

tbsp = tablespoon
tsp = teaspoon

Directions:

  • Over a medium heat, dry toast the toor dal, cumin, coriander, fenugreek and peppercorns for a few minutes whilst stirring or shaking the pan.
  • When you can really smell their aromas, take off the heat and let everything cool for a few minutes
  • Once cooled, add to your grinder and finely grind along with the mustard seeds
  • Add the ground ingredients to a bowl
  • Stir in the asafetida, turmeric and chili powders
  • Crumble in the curry leaves and stir again

Store your rasam powder in an airtight jar and out of direct sunlight. Use within 3 months.

Note: I used toor dal for this recipe but you can use others like yellow split peas or red lentils instead. 

Toasting and Grinding Info:

Rasam powder

Whilst you can make this Southern Indian mix without toasting the ingredients prior to grinding, I do recommend that you do toast and grind.

The heat releases the spices' essential oils imparting fabulous, intense flavours and aromas which will be transferred to your food. 

Click here for tips and a video about this. (Link opens in new window)

Here's a Short Video of How I Made it:



After Making Your Rasam Powder You May Like to Try...

Pickling Mix- For Pickling
and Preserving Fruit and
Veg Traditional Style

Mulling Spices - Enjoy a
Delicious Glass of Mulled
Wine All Year Round

A Large Range of
Homemade Blends For
Superb Home Cooking


Return to Spice Mix

Return to Home


Show / Hide