What is comfort food, you ask?
Well, comfort food is what you’d like to eat after a hectic day of work or a long and tiring flight. Everyone’s definition of comfort food might slightly change but some foods always remain as a constant and we just need to have them after having a bad day. And, for us, South Indians, what better than a piping hot cup of Rasam with rice. And, maybe that’s why this dish makes it to our tables almost quite frequently.
Chaaru in Andhra and Telangana, Rasam in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and Saaru in Karnataka, us South Indians swear by this dish. So, what is Rasam and why is it comfort food? It is a thin soup preparation in South India made with Tamarind juice, tomatoes, cumin, mustard, pepper and several other spices. It has a distinct sour and tangy taste that makes it super appealing to the palate. The pepper rush also adds a kick to the food. Ask us South Indians, and we will tell you how much we love it. The first step of a meal or a course, our humble Rasam gives us comfort on another level. The spices and the extracts of Tomatoes make the dish an absolute winner.
While Rasam is great on flavours, did you know that it has several health benefits, too? Here are some health benefits of it.
Weight loss
One of the most significant benefits of consuming Rasam is that it aids in weight loss. The black pepper content in the Rasam is what helps the body in losing weight. It removes toxins from the body and increases metabolism and promotes weight loss.
Rich in vitamins
Rasam has several essential vitamins such as folic acid, thiamin, vitamin A, vitamin C, and niacin. In addition to these, it is also a great source of minerals such as potassium, copper, zinc and copper. Some of these vitamins and minerals act as antioxidants and keep the body healthy.
Good for pregnant women
Pregnant women need foods, that will digest easily. And, what better than Rasam as a good meal that will provide them with all kinds of vitamins and minerals. Also, the Powerhouse of several proteins and antioxidants, Rasam also promotes the health of the mother and the child.
Prevents constipation
Rasam has been a part of our food culture for years now. Rasam contains tamarind which acts like magic on your stomach. Rich in dietary fibre and poly-saccharides, it eases bowel movement regularly and hence decreases the problems of constipation.
Best Home Remedy for Cold and Cough
We’ve all had Rasam when we were down with Flu. Rasam contains tamarind, turmeric powder and pepper which are loaded with health benefits. Also, as it is easy to digest, patients with flu or cough can load themselves with Rasam for an easy inflow of vitamins and minerals.
