Tomato Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato Rice is simple, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and pantry staples. With its comforting taste and appealing texture, this dish is a lifesaver on busy days. It’s naturally vegan, can be made gluten-free, and is easy to customize with your favorite add-ins. The richness of sautéed tomatoes combined with earthy spices and herbs makes this dish both hearty and wholesome.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked rice (preferably cooled or day-old rice)
• Ripe tomatoes (finely chopped or pureed)
• Oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
• Mustard seeds
• Cumin seeds
• Dried red chilies
• Green chilies (sliced)
• Curry leaves
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Ginger-garlic paste
• Turmeric powder
• Red chili powder
• Garam masala or sambar powder (optional)
• Salt
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
2. Add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add chopped or pureed tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes break down and oil starts to separate.
6. Mix in turmeric powder, red chili powder, and optional garam masala or sambar powder. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
7. Add salt to taste and stir well.
8. Gently fold in the cooked rice and mix until evenly coated with the tomato masala.
9. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, turn off the heat, and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
10. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25 minutes to prepare, especially if you’re using pre-cooked rice.

Variations

• Add vegetables: Include peas, bell peppers, or carrots for more texture and nutrition.
• Use brown rice or quinoa: For a healthier twist, substitute with whole grains.
• Spice variations: Use rasam powder or pav bhaji masala for a unique flavor profile.
• Nutty texture: Toss in roasted peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
• Tangier version: Add a splash of tamarind paste along with the tomatoes for extra tang.

Storage/Reheating

Store Tomato Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, sprinkle a bit of water over the rice and microwave or warm it in a pan over low heat until heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

FAQs

What kind of rice should I use for Tomato Rice?

Short- to medium-grain rice like sona masoori is traditional, but basmati or long-grain rice also works well.

Can I make Tomato Rice with freshly cooked rice?

Yes, but let the rice cool slightly before mixing to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I use tomato puree instead of chopped tomatoes?

Yes, tomato puree can be used for a smoother texture and deeper color.

Is Tomato Rice spicy?

It can be mildly or moderately spicy, depending on the amount of green chilies and red chili powder used.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, just ensure your spice blends are free from additives.

What can I serve with Tomato Rice?

It pairs well with raita, pickle, papadam, or a simple vegetable curry.

Can I freeze Tomato Rice?

Yes, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.

How do I prevent soggy rice?

Use cooled or leftover rice and avoid overcooking after adding it to the tomato mixture.

Can I skip onions or garlic?

Yes, you can omit them to suit dietary needs or personal preferences; it will still taste great.

Can I prepare this dish in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can cook the tomato masala in the pressure cooker and then add uncooked rice with water to cook everything together.

Conclusion

Tomato Rice is a deliciously tangy and aromatic dish that’s as quick to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whether served on its own or as part of a meal, it’s a versatile and comforting recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Keep this in your rotation for those days when you need a tasty meal fast.

Tomato Rice

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Tomato Rice is a flavorful South Indian dish made with cooked rice, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Tangy, mildly spicy, and ready in minutes, it’s perfect for lunch boxes, quick meals, or as a side dish.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled or day-old)
• 2 medium ripe tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1–2 green chilies, sliced
• 8–10 curry leaves
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala or sambar powder (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
2. Add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add chopped or pureed tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the oil starts to separate.
6. Mix in turmeric powder, red chili powder, and optional garam masala or sambar powder. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
7. Add salt to taste and stir well.
8. Gently fold in the cooked rice and mix until evenly coated with the tomato masala.
9. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, then turn off the heat.
10. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot or at room temperature.

Notes

• Use day-old rice for best texture and to avoid sogginess.
• Adjust spices to your preferred heat level.
• Add vegetables or nuts for variety and added nutrition.
• Substitute tomato puree for chopped tomatoes if preferred.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1.2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg