Teresa's Recipes
Flavorful South Indian Tomato Rice
Tomato Rice is a vibrant and aromatic dish that encapsulates the essence of South Indian cuisine. With its medley of spices and the tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, this rice dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a comforting staple in many Indian households. Traditionally enjoyed with a side of cooling raita or papadam, this dish brings warmth and heartiness to your table, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. Let each bite transport you to the sun-kissed fields of South India!
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups (for cooking rice) Water
- 2 tablespoons Oil
- 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
- 10-12 leaves Curry leaves
- 2, slit Green chillies
- 1 medium, finely chopped Onion
- 1 inch, grated Ginger
- 2 large, chopped Tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam masala
- to taste Salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- Wash and soak the basmati rice in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice, a pinch of salt, and cook until the rice is fluffy and water is absorbed. Set the cooked rice aside.
- In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.
- Add curry leaves and slit green chillies to the pan and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the grated ginger and sauté until the raw smell dissipates.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Gently fold in the cooked rice into the tomato mixture, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the spices.
- Cover the pan and allow it to cook on low flame for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander, alongside raita or your favorite side dish.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of ghee before serving.
- You can also add vegetables like peas or carrots for an extra nutritious twist.
- Adjust the amount of green chillies based on your spice preference.