Jeera Milagu Rasam (Cumin & Pepper Soup)

Introduction:
If you have a fever, your mouth probably tastes so awful that you can't enjoy any food at all. This soup is especially for those days, it has so much spice in it that you will definitely taste it! But it is a warm drink even if you are feeling pretty good! Try it.

Ingredients:
Cumin seeds - 1 tbsp
Dried red chili - 1 long
Pepper - 1 tbsp
Toor dal (split pigeon peas) - half to one tbsp
Tamarind concentrate - half tbsp
Garlic, crushed (optional) - 3 cloves
Salt - to taste
To season:
Mustard seeds - 1 tsp
Curry leaves - 2
Oil - 1 tbsp

Cooking time: 10-15 min
Servings: About 2

Method:
Grind the pepper, cumin seeds, red chili and toor dal together into a coarse powder.
If using garlic, heat half a tbsp of oil and fry the garlic until brown, and add 1 cup of water to this vessel, follow the rest of the instructions....
Slowly dissolve the tamarind concentrate in the (1 cup) water while bringing to a boil. Add the powder and mix well, simmer until it comes back to a boil (or until the raw smell of powder is present). To season, heat oil in a separate pan and add the mustard seeds. When they start to sputter, add the curry leaves, immediately mix into the soup.
Drink from a shot glass! Or, mix with rice and enjoy with chips or papad.

Author: Shrinkingsodacan
Source: Mom's recipe