Tomato Rice

Authentic Tomato Rice Recipe from India

Region / culture: India | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomato rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is popular in South Indian cuisine. It is a simple and quick recipe that can be made with just a few ingredients. The combination of tangy tomatoes, fragrant spices, and fluffy rice makes this dish a favorite among many.

History

Tomato rice has its origins in South India, where it is a staple in many households. It is often made as a quick and easy meal using leftover rice and fresh tomatoes. The dish is known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors, making it a popular choice for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked white basmati rice
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 tomato, chopped
salt, to taste
0.25 tsp turmeric powder
0.25 tsp red chili powder
0.5 tsp mustard seeds
a couple of dried curry leaves
freshly chopped coriander for garnish
1 tbsp cooking oil

How to prepare

Heat oil in a non-stick pan and add curry leaves and mustard seeds.
When they start to sizzle, add sliced onions.
Cook until onions turn transparent and add chopped tomatoes. Cook for a few minutes until tomatoes begin to pulp.
Add salt, turmeric, and chili powder and allow spices to blend in.
Add cooked rice and stir-fry until it mixes in with all the spices.
Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve warm.

Variations

Add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
Add nuts or seeds for crunch and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.

- Make sure to cook the onions until they are translucent to bring out their sweetness.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato rice can be served on its own as a main dish or paired with yogurt, raita, or a side salad. It also goes well with papadums or pickle for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Use a non-stick pan to prevent the rice from sticking.

- Stir-fry the rice on high heat to ensure it is well-coated with the spices.

- Cover the pan with a lid to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ghee or butter instead of oil for a richer flavor.

- Substitute mustard seeds with cumin seeds or fennel seeds.

- Use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve tomato rice in a colorful bowl garnished with fresh coriander leaves. You can also sprinkle some roasted cashews or almonds on top for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato rice pairs well with a variety of dishes such as chicken curry, dal, or vegetable stir-fry. It also goes well with a side of yogurt or cucumber raita.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover tomato rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of tomato rice typically contains around 200-300 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Tomato rice is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the rice and tomatoes. One serving typically contains around 30-40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The amount of fat in tomato rice is relatively low, as it is typically made with minimal oil. One serving may contain around 5-10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Tomato rice is not a significant source of protein, as the main ingredients are rice and tomatoes. One serving may contain around 2-5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato rice is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

Tomato rice is generally free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, it may contain mustard seeds, which can be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Tomato rice is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is relatively low in fat and calories. It is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Summary

Tomato rice is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy this classic South Indian dish with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tomato Rice. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the ropes in the kitchen. My grandmother, who was a master at concocting delicious meals from scratch, had invited me to help her prepare dinner one evening.

As we worked side by side chopping vegetables and stirring pots on the stove, she suddenly pulled out a faded recipe card from her apron pocket. She handed it to me with a twinkle in her eye, saying, "This is a special recipe that has been passed down through our family for generations. It's for Tomato Rice, a comforting and flavorful dish that never fails to impress."

I eagerly scanned the ingredients list and instructions, feeling a rush of excitement at the thought of learning a new recipe. The recipe called for simple ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant spices, and fluffy basmati rice. But it was the method of preparation that intrigued me the most. My grandmother explained that the key to perfecting this dish was to slowly simmer the tomatoes and spices together until they melded into a rich and savory sauce.

I watched in awe as my grandmother expertly cooked the dish, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that with a practiced hand. She explained the importance of tasting as you go, adjusting seasonings to suit your personal preferences. As the aroma of simmering tomatoes filled the kitchen, I knew this recipe was something special.

After what felt like hours of patient stirring and simmering, the Tomato Rice was finally ready. My grandmother spooned out generous helpings onto our plates, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dollop of creamy yogurt. I took my first bite, savoring the explosion of flavors on my taste buds. The tangy sweetness of the tomatoes paired perfectly with the warm spices and fluffy rice, creating a dish that was both comforting and exciting.

From that moment on, Tomato Rice became a staple in our family's repertoire of recipes. I made it for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike, always with a sense of pride and nostalgia for that first magical evening in the kitchen with my grandmother.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. Sometimes I swap out the traditional spices for a more modern twist, or I experiment with different varieties of tomatoes to change up the flavor profile. But no matter how many times I make it, Tomato Rice always brings back memories of that special evening with my grandmother.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own children and grandchildren, I hope they will feel the same sense of wonder and joy that I did when I first learned to make Tomato Rice. It is more than just a dish – it is a piece of family history, a connection to the past, and a tribute to the generations of cooks who came before me. And with each bite, I am reminded of the love and tradition that binds us together, one delicious recipe at a time.