Cool off with a Cold Soup –
Hot summer days in the DC metropolitan area! For all those folks who asked me for the recipe of the cold soup that we serve at Indique Heights - here we go......
This was printed in the Washington Post in 2006.
Moru Rasam (Spiced Buttermilk Soup)
The Washington Post, August 9, 2006
· Cuisine: Indian
· Course: Soup
· Features: Fast, Meatless
Summary:
"We drink this at the end of a meal," says Chef K.N. Vinod. When preparing this soup, whisk the buttermilk well before adding the seasoning. It can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
*Notes: Asafetida, fenugreek seeds, urad dhuli dal and curry leaves are available at South Asian markets and at Wegmans stores.
4 to 6 servings
Ingredients:
· 1/4 cup vegetable oil
· 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
· 1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds
· 1 pinch asafetida (optional)*
· 1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds*
· 1/2 teaspoon urad dhuli dal (white split gram beans)*
· 1/3 teaspoon chopped jalapeño chili pepper (optional)
· 1 teaspoon chopped ginger root
· 10 curry leaves*
· 3 shallots, thinly sliced
· 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
· 1 teaspoon salt
· 2 quarts buttermilk
Directions:
In a medium pan over medium-high heat, heat the oil until it shimmers and then add the mustard seeds. When they start to crackle and pop, about 30 seconds, add the cumin, asafetida if using, fenugreek, urad dhuli dal, jalapeño chili pepper, if desired, ginger, curry leaves and shallots. Cook, stirring frequently and reducing the heat if necessary, until the shallots become golden brown (watch carefully so they don't burn), about 2 minutes. Add the turmeric and salt and remove from the heat.
Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Transfer to a food processor or blender and process until it forms a thick paste (if the mixture is not fully engaging with the blade, add a little of the buttermilk). Place the buttermilk in a large bowl or pitcher and add the spice paste, stirring until no streaks remain. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until cold. Before serving, add salt to taste.
Recipe Source:
Adapted from Chef K.N. Vinod, co-owner of Indique / Indique Heights in Chevy Chase.
