Nellikai Rasam, or Amla Rasam, is a tangy and mildly spicy South Indian soup made using Indian gooseberries (amla). The rasam has a well-balanced flavor profile—slightly sour from the amla, heat from black pepper and green chilies, and a subtle sweetness from jaggery. ( optional )

The use of spices like cumin, hing (asafoetida), and coriander enhances its earthy and aromatic appeal. It is typically served with hot rice or consumed as a warm, comforting soup.

Benefits of Amla in Rasam:

1. Rich in Vitamin C – Amla is packed with Vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and fight infections.

2. Aids Digestion – The combination of amla with spices like cumin and black pepper enhances gut health and prevents acidity.

3. Detoxifying – Amla acts as a natural detoxifier, flushing out toxins from the body.

4. Good for Skin & Hair – Regular consumption of amla improves skin glow and strengthens hair.

5. Soothes the Throat – The warm, tangy rasam can help relieve sore throat and congestion.

6. Balances Pitta Dosha – According to Ayurveda, amla cools the body and helps balance the Pitta dosha.

Delicious healthy immune boosting rasam with the goodness of amla/Gooseberries .

First prepare a paste with the following :

1/2 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp pepper corns

1 tsp coriander seeds

small piece of ginger

2 green chilies

3 tbsp grated amla ,

handful of coriander leaves , make a paste . keep aside .

Method

Take a vessel , add some water about 1 cup ,

add 2 small chopped tomatoes ,

add 1/4 tsp turmeric powder

add salt ,few curry leaves, allow to boil till tomatoes soften .

add the ground paste ,

add cooked dal water , adjust taste , allow to boil gently till a froth is reached, switch off remove and garnish with coriander leaves add ghee tempering of 1 tbsp ghee, 1/2 tsp mustard seeds, 1/4 tsp cumin seeds, few curry leaves , 2 red chilies .