South Indian Pepper Water

This soothing broth is perfect for winter evenings.

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

2 tbsp vegetable oil

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp cumin seeds

½ tsp mustard seeds

¼ tsp asafoetida

½ tsk ground turmeric

2 dried red chillies

4-6 curry leaves

2 garlic cloves, crushed

300 ml tomato juice

Juice of 2 lemons

120 ml water

Salt

Fresh coriander (cilantro), to garnish

Method:

1. Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the pepper, spices, curry leaves and garlic until the chillies are nearly black and the garlic is golden brown.

2. Lower the heat and pour in the tomato juice, lemon juice and water.

3. Bring to the boil then simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Season to taste with salt. Pour into heated bowls, garnish with the chopped coriander if you like, and serve.