Best South Indian Rasams for Winter: Healthy, Light and Warming

In the chilly days of winter, we all want to take hot food that feels light, comforting and warming as well. The South Indian dish, rasam, fits perfectly in this role. It is more than a regular soup; it is a medicinal blend of spices, herbs and tamarind which is good for digestion, boosts immunity and helps to regulate body temperature. This dish is traditionally served with rice or sipped on its own. Ingredients that are known for warming and have anti-inflammatory properties like black pepper, garlic, cumin and ginger, are used to prepare this dish.


This rasam is widely considered a medicinal rasam. It naturally warms the body and supports respiratory health. The presence of black paper and cumin in it helps to generate heat in the body. Black pepper contains piperine which is good for improving digestion and clearing nasal congestion. So this rasam is generally consumed during the season of cold or if someone is affected by coughs or seasonal flu.

Known for its pleasant aroma and best for immune boosting. Garlic contains a compound, allicin, which is antibacterial and has antiviral effects. In the Tamil households, this rasam is especially popular during the cold.


Jeera rasam is light yet powerful. Cumin has the potential to aid digestion, reduce bloating and improve nutrient absorption. It is often recommended after heavy meals or if someone experiences digestive discomfort.

This rasam is prepared with fresh ginger so it test slightly spicy with a tangy flavour. Ginger is a natural thermogenic food that is good to improve circulation and relieve a sore throat and nausea.

Tomato rasam is amazing in taste as it balances tanginess with spice. It has the presence of antioxidants like lycopene. With its amazing flavour, it is light, gentle on the stomach, making it one of the most widely consumed rasams.

Lemon is added to this rasam, which makes it rich in vitamin C. It is refresing and warming as well due to the presence of pepper and cumin base. Boosts immunity and helps to prevent seasonal infections.


Tamarind rasam or Puli rasam is good for gut health. Presence of tamarind helps in digestion, provides minerals to the body like potassium and magnesium.

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Q1. Which rasam is good for cold?
Ans: Milagu rasam

Q2. Is south Indian rasam good for health?
Ans: A primary health benefit of Rasam is its ability to boost immunity

Q3. What fruit clears the throat?
Ans: Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C