Rava Payasam refers to the traditional sweet pudding from Kerala, India made from Rava, Milk, a bit of salt, Ghee, sugar spiced with Cardamom powder.

Rava is the Malayalam term for Semolina which is also called Soji or Sooji in other parts of India.

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Rasam refers to the sour, spicy and tangy clear/thin soup from Kerala, India using basic ingredients, among which is the Tamarind (Tamarind Paste) which gives Rasam its sour taste. Tomatoes and Lemon are also used to make Rasam taste sour. Other ingredients and spices used for making Rasam are onions, ginger, garlic, turmeric powder, mustard seeds, pepper, red chilies and a bit of Jaggery. Other versions make use of Cumin, Coriander and of course the Curry Leaves which seems to be a must in all the dishes from Kerala.

Rasam is a popular dish not only in Kerala, but in other states of South India. It is often poured over rice and combined well and eaten also as a side dish together with Meen (Fish) Curry. It can also be served as a soup.

Rasam is also used as a digestive drink and is one of the many dishes serve as part of Sadya.

This Rasam below is made sour by using Tomatoes. In my opinion the South Indian Rasam is very much the same as the Philippines Sinigang, except that the Philippines Sinigang has meat (fish, shrimps/prawns, pork or beef) on it. (Please see article on Sinigang)

Thakkali (Tomato) Rasam poured to over rice, sometimes the only meal for lunch or dinner

Below is a picture of the traditional Rasam. Other varieties are coming out now using other ingredients.

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Rusks are pieces of white bread which are dried and baked until golden brown. In Kerala, India, particularly in Allepey, they can be bought in most variety stores and eaten as snacks with hot coffee or tea or made into breadcrumbs as coating for Cutlets (fish or meat cutlets) before frying, as in Japanese Panko.

Picture below is a picture of store bought Rusks and pieces of Fish Cutlets coated with breadcrumbs made from Rusks.

Fried Fish Cutlet from Allepey, Kerala, India usually coated with flour, but this time Rusks made into breadcrumbs was used as a coating for extra crunchy taste

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Deutsch: Reisgericht / Español: Comida de Arroz / Português: Refeição de Arroz / Français: Plat à base de Riz / Italiano: Pasto a base di Riso

A Rice Meal in the food context typically refers to a dish or a set of dishes where rice serves as the central or primary component, accompanied by one or more side dishes that could include vegetables, meats, fish, or legumes. The concept of a rice meal is universal, transcending cultures and cuisines, given the staple status of rice in many parts of the world. Depending on the region, the rice can be prepared in various ways, such as steamed, fried, or cooked with spices, and is complemented by side dishes that reflect local flavors and culinary traditions.

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Deutsch: Gefüllter Tintenfisch / Español: Calamar Relleno / Português: Lula Recheada / Français: Calmar Farci / Italiano: Calamaro Ripieno

Relyenong Pusit refers to a traditional Filipino dish that consists of stuffed squid. The squid is cleaned and its body is stuffed with a savory filling, which typically includes a mixture of chopped vegetables, ground meat (pork or beef), and sometimes, seafood like shrimp or fish. Seasonings such as garlic, onions, soy sauce, and sometimes tomatoes are added to the filling for flavor. The stuffed squid is then either fried, grilled, or baked, with the cooking method varying depending on regional or familial preferences. This dish is known for its rich flavors, combining the seafood taste of the squid with the hearty, flavorful stuffing.

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Deutsch: Red Velvet Cupcake / Español: Cupcake de Terciopelo Rojo / Português: Cupcake de Veludo Vermelho / Français: Cupcake Velours Rouge / Italiano: Cupcake di Velluto Rosso

Red Velvet Cupcake is a classic American dessert known for its distinctive bright red to dark red color and its smooth, velvety texture. This cupcake is typically made with cocoa powder, buttermilk, and vinegar, which react together to bring out the cake's subtle chocolate flavor and tender crumb. The addition of red food coloring—or, in some traditional recipes, beet juice—gives the cake its iconic color. Red Velvet Cupcakes are often topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

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