Arroz de Tomate

Arroz de Tomate Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Angola

Region / culture: Angola | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Arroz de Tomate, or Tomato Rice, is a simple yet flavorful dish that has its roots deeply embedded in various cuisines around the world. This dish, with its humble ingredients and easy preparation method, is a testament to the beauty of comfort food. It combines the tanginess of tomatoes with the soft, absorbing nature of rice, creating a versatile side dish that complements a wide range of main courses.

History

The history of Arroz de Tomate can be traced back to the Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines, where tomatoes and rice are staple ingredients. Each region has its own variation of the recipe, adapted to local tastes and available ingredients. The dish's simplicity and the widespread availability of its ingredients have made it a beloved recipe in households across the globe.

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
0.5 cup peanut oil
4 plum tomatoes, peeled and seeded
1 tsp salt
1 tsp minced hot red pepper
1 bay leaf
1 cup white rice

How to prepare

In a skillet, heat the peanut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes transparent.
Add the tomatoes, salt, hot red pepper, and bay leaf to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are almost pureed.
Pour in 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Stir in the rice, cover the skillet, and cook for 20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.
Stir the rice and serve it as a side dish for meats or poultry.

Variations

For a heartier version of Arroz de Tomate, you can add chorizo, shrimp, or diced chicken to the skillet along with the tomatoes. For a vegetarian twist, mix in cooked black beans or lentils before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of Arroz de Tomate, consider sautéing the onions and garlic until they are golden brown. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor that enriches the dish. Using ripe, juicy tomatoes will give the rice a vibrant color and a rich taste. For an even cooking process, ensure the rice is spread evenly in the skillet before covering it to simmer.

Serving Suggestions

Arroz de Tomate pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. It can also be served as a vegetarian main course, topped with a fried egg or mixed with cooked beans for added protein.

Cooking Techniques

The key to perfect Arroz de Tomate lies in the simmering process. Keeping the skillet covered and on low heat allows the rice to absorb the tomato mixture evenly, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If peanut oil is a concern, it can be substituted with olive oil or vegetable oil. Brown rice can replace white rice for a whole grain option, though cooking times may vary.

Make Ahead Tips

Arroz de Tomate can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary to prevent the rice from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Arroz de Tomate in a colorful bowl, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a refreshing touch and enhances the flavors of the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a citrusy beer complements the tangy flavor of Arroz de Tomate. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Arroz de Tomate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Arroz de Tomate contains approximately 300 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates in the rice and the fats in the oil.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Arroz de Tomate primarily provides carbohydrates, with approximately 45 grams per serving. The white rice in the dish is a significant source of these carbohydrates, offering energy for the body's daily activities.

Fats

The peanut oil used in the recipe contributes to the fat content of the dish, with a total of about 14 grams of fat per serving. While peanut oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats, it's important to consume it in moderation.

Proteins

Arroz de Tomate is not a high-protein dish, providing about 4 grams of protein per serving. The protein in this dish comes from the small amounts found in the rice and tomatoes.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional value of Arroz de Tomate, supporting heart health and providing antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as dairy, nuts (excluding peanut oil, which can be substituted), gluten, and shellfish. However, those with a sensitivity to nightshades should avoid this dish due to the tomatoes.

Summary

Arroz de Tomate is a balanced dish, providing carbohydrates for energy, a moderate amount of healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in protein and calories, making it an excellent side dish for a protein-rich main course.

Summary

Arroz de Tomate is a versatile and nutritious dish that celebrates the simplicity of its ingredients. With its rich history and easy adaptability, it's a perfect addition to any meal, offering a comforting and satisfying experience. Whether served as a side or a main, Arroz de Tomate is sure to delight the palate with its vibrant flavors and textures.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Arroz de Tomate. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in a small village in Portugal. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook, had just returned from a trip to visit some relatives in a neighboring town. She brought back with her a small, weathered notebook filled with recipes that she had collected from various friends and family members.

As soon as she got home, my grandmother wasted no time in trying out one of the recipes she had acquired. It was a simple dish called Arroz de Tomate, a tomato rice that was a staple in many Portuguese households. I watched intently as she gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the dish.

The aroma that filled the kitchen as the rice simmered in a tomato broth was unlike anything I had ever smelled before. The sweet scent of ripe tomatoes mixed with the earthy undertones of garlic and onions created a mouthwatering combination that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

As my grandmother ladled the steaming rice onto our plates, she explained to me the importance of using fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality olive oil in order to achieve the best flavor. She also shared with me some tips and tricks she had learned over the years, such as letting the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.

From that moment on, Arroz de Tomate became a regular fixture on our dinner table. My grandmother would often make it for special occasions, such as birthdays and holidays, and it quickly became a family favorite. Whenever I would ask her where she learned the recipe, she would simply smile and say, "Oh, I picked it up from a friend a long time ago."

Years passed, and I eventually moved away from my hometown to pursue my own dreams and adventures. But no matter where I went, I always carried with me the memories of my grandmother's delicious Arroz de Tomate. Whenever I missed home, I would whip up a batch of the dish and let the familiar flavors transport me back to her cozy kitchen.

One day, as I was flipping through an old cookbook that my grandmother had given me before I left, I stumbled upon a recipe for Arroz de Tomate. I couldn't believe my eyes - it was the exact same recipe that my grandmother had taught me all those years ago. I felt a rush of nostalgia as I read through the familiar ingredients and instructions, and I knew that I had to make it right away.

As I chopped the onions and minced the garlic, I couldn't help but smile as I remembered my grandmother's gentle hands guiding mine as we prepared the dish together. I could almost hear her voice in my ear, offering me advice and encouragement as I stirred the rice and tomatoes in the pot.

When the Arroz de Tomate was finally ready, I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar flavors that had comforted me for so many years. It was as delicious as I remembered, and I knew that my grandmother would have been proud of the way I had recreated her signature dish.

To this day, whenever I make Arroz de Tomate, I think of my grandmother and the love and care she put into every meal she cooked. Her recipes may have come from various places and people, but the true magic was in the way she transformed them into something truly special. And for that, I will always be grateful.