Vepambu Rasam(Neem flower Rasam)

Piping hot Rasam mixed with Rice makes a very comforting and satisfying meal during Winter and Rainy Season. When I am sick, this is the only thing on earth I would want to have.

Neem flower rasam can be made quickly with very few ingredients you usually have on hand.

Ingredients:
Tamarind-Small lime size
Rasam Powder-1/2 tsp
Salt
Hing-1/4 tsp

Seasoning:
Ghee-1 tsp
Dry neem flower-1 tsp
Jeera-1/2 tsp
Red chillies-2
Garlic pods(optional)-2
Curry leaves-a few

Method:
Mix Tamarind with 2 cups of water in a vessel. No need to extract the juice from tamarind. Add salt, hing, rasam powder and boil until the raw smell  is gone(12-15 minutes).
Add 1 more cup of water and boil for another 5 minutes. Turn off the heat.
Do the seasoning and add it to the Rasam.

Note: Fry neem flower till it turns dark brown.
If you don't have neem flower, substitute it with 1 tsp of  pepper-cumin powder(1/2 tsp each) to make Pepper-Cumin Rasam.

Measurements are approximate. You can master the skill of making Sambar/Rasam only with experience.