firstly, to prepare the spice mix, in a pan take 2 tsp pepper, 1 tsp cumin, ¼ tsp methi, ½ tsp coriander seeds and few curry leaves.
roast on low flame until the spices turn aromatic and curry leaves turn crisp.
cool completely, and grind to a coarse powder. rasam spice mix is ready. keep aside.
in a large kadai take 1 tomato, few curry leaves, ½ tsp turmeric and 1 tsp salt.
also, add 1¼ cup tamarind extract and 5 cup water.
mix well, cover and boil for 15 minutes.
after boiling, the tomato has softened and all the flavours are in the water.
further, add prepared spice mix, 1½ cup toor dal and get to a boil.
pour the tempering over the rasam and add 2 tbsp coriander. mix well.
finally, enjoy pepper rasam with steamed rice or you can drink it as soup.