
Lemon Rasam
South Indian • Vegetarian
How to Make Lemon Rasam (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Lemon Rasam, known as Elumichai Rasam in Tamil, is a quintessential South Indian soup cherished for its tangy flavor and comforting warmth. Traditionally served as a light snack or an accompaniment to rice, this rasam is a staple in Tamil Nadu households, especially during the cooler months or when someone is feeling under the weather. The dish is made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, aromatic spices, and a tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves, offering a refreshing sourness balanced by subtle heat. Lemon Rasam stands out among Indian soup recipes for its simplicity and digestive benefits. Its light, clear broth is not only soothing but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal healthy snack or starter. The combination of spices like cumin, black pepper, and turmeric with lemon juice gives the rasam its distinctive flavor profile, while the absence of heavy dals keeps it low in calories. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a small portion of rice, Lemon Rasam brings the flavors of South India to your table with every sip. In Indian culture, rasam is often associated with home remedies for colds and digestive issues, thanks to its use of black pepper, ginger, and citrus. This makes Lemon Rasam a timeless dish that is both deeply rooted in tradition and perfect for modern, health-conscious eaters seeking authentic Indian cuisine.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (about 200ml))
- 1 large Lemon (freshly squeezed juice)
- 1 medium Tomato (chopped)
- 1 Green chili (slit)
- 1/2 inch Ginger (finely chopped)
- 8-10 Curry leaves (fresh)
- 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper powder (freshly ground)
- 1/8 tsp Asafoetida (hing) - optional
- 1 tsp Oil (preferably coconut or sunflower oil)
- 1 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish) - optional
- to taste Salt
- 2.5 cups Water
Instructions
- 1
In a saucepan, add chopped tomato, green chili, ginger, turmeric powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Pour in 2.5 cups of water and bring to a gentle boil.
8 minutes
Use ripe tomatoes for a natural tang and color.
- 2
Let the mixture simmer until the tomatoes are soft and flavors are infused. Mash the tomatoes gently with the back of a spoon.
5 minutes
Mashing tomatoes enhances the rasam's body without adding dal.
- 3
Once the tomato mixture is well cooked, turn off the heat. Allow the liquid to cool slightly, then add freshly squeezed lemon juice.
2 minutes
Never boil the rasam after adding lemon juice to prevent bitterness.
- 4
In a small tadka pan, heat oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida (if using).
2 minutes
Tempering spices in hot oil releases their essential oils for authentic flavor.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Lemon Rasam recipe is a healthy choice due to its low-calorie content, absence of added sugars, and use of heart-friendly oils. It’s packed with immune-boosting ingredients like lemon, ginger, and turmeric, and is free from heavy cream or dal found in other rasam varieties. The dish is vegan-friendly and suitable for diabetics, as it has a low glycemic index and is light on the stomach. Enjoying Lemon Rasam regularly can support digestion and overall wellness.
Lemon Rasam is low in calories and fat, making it an ideal snack for weight watchers. It’s naturally rich in vitamin C from fresh lemon juice and tomatoes, and contains antioxidants like curcumin from turmeric and gingerol from ginger. Black pepper aids in digestion and boosts metabolism, while cumin and asafoetida support gut health. The soup is hydrating, gluten-free, and easy to digest, providing a balance of micronutrients with minimal carbohydrates and virtually no cholesterol.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always add lemon juice off the heat to preserve its vitamin C and prevent bitterness.
- 💡Tip 2: Use freshly crushed black pepper for a more robust flavor.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust spice levels based on your preference and season.
Storage & Serving
Keeps for 6-8 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 60.0 kcal |
| Protein | 1.1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3.2 g |
| Total Fat | 0.4 g |
| Fiber | 0.7 g |
| Sugars | 0.7 g |
| Iron | 0.4 mg |
| Calcium | 18.0 mg |
| Sodium | 230.0 mg |
| Potassium | 60.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 16.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 8.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 12.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 8.0 µg |





