Heat Wave Cool Down: Spicy Yogurt Soup

When did half of the US decide to join a sauna? Did we get some great membership discount to World's Gym and decide that a group trip to the heat box was okay? Oppressive humidity, baking heat and sizzling sun have caused many of us to retire into the air conditioning and pray for rain. 

One way to deal with the is through a cooling yogurt soup that requires little heat and effort. This recipe takes about 5 minutes to make and is perfect when you don't want to suffocate your house with the heat of your stove. Also known as majiga charu in Telugu, this soup can be eaten many ways and is always delightful. 

Majiga Charu: Spicy Yogurt Soup

Ingredients 

• 3/4 cup fresh plain unsweetened yogurt (homemade is preferable) 
• 3/4 water 
• Pinch of turmeric 
• 3 green chilies, finely cut 
• Salt 
• Pinch of hing powder 
• Splash of lemon juice 
• Poppu/Thadka 
• Pinch of mustard seeds 
• 1 tbs of ajwain seeds 
• 1 dry red chili 

Directions 

1. In a heat proof bowl, add the yogurt and water. Whisk it vigorously until there is a thick soup formed. 

2. Add the: turmeric, green chilies, salt and hing powder. The mix thoroughly.  

2. In a small sauce pan, heat a small amount of oil. When the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. When they start to pop add the ajwain seeds and red chili. Wait 20 seconds and then add it over the yogurt. 

*Notes*

*Traditionally this is served with cooked toor dal and rice. However it can be eaten by itself or with rice. 

* The proportion of yogurt and water is almost 1:1.
*Always add more ajwain seeds to the mix. 

Ease: This is incredibly easy to make and quick

Ayurvedic Friendly: No

Yummy: Lovely for the taste buds