Tomato Rice
South Indian rice cooked with tomato, garam masala, and curry leaves.
For 1 serving
Sauté the aromatics and tomatoes
- Heat oil in a pan and splutter mustard seeds and urad dal.
- Add onions and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in ginger garlic paste for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 4 minutes until soft and mushy.
TIPCook the tomatoes until they release their oil for a deeper, more concentrated flavor base.Simmer the rice with spices
- Stir in turmeric, garam masala, and salt.
- Add the raw rice and pour in the water, stirring once to combine.
- Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 12 minutes until water is absorbed.
TIPKeep the lid closed throughout the cooking process to ensure the rice steams evenly.Fluff and finish with cilantro
Gently fluff the rice with a fork to keep the grains separate and finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro over the top.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use day-old leftover rice. It's drier and less likely to become sticky.
- 2Use ripe, red, and juicy tomatoes for a vibrant color and tangy flavor.
- 3If your tomatoes are too sour, you can balance the flavor by adding a small pinch of sugar or jaggery to the masala.
- 4For extra crunch and richness, add a tablespoon of roasted peanuts or cashews during the tempering step.
- 5Always mix the rice with the masala on low heat to prevent it from sticking to the pan or becoming mushy.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Vegetables
Add 1/2 cup of mixed vegetables like green peas, diced carrots, and beans along with the onions for a more nutritious meal.
With CoconutWith Coconut
For a richer, coastal flavor, add 2-3 tablespoons of freshly grated coconut at the end, just before garnishing.
Protein Rich VersionProtein-Rich Version
Stir in 1/2 cup of boiled chickpeas or cubed paneer along with the rice to add a protein boost.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of green chilies or add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper powder along with the other spices for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates from the rice provide a steady release of energy, keeping you full and energized for longer periods.
Aids in Digestion
Spices like turmeric, ginger, and asafoetida used in the tempering are known for their digestive properties, helping to improve gut health.
Boosts Immunity
The combination of Vitamin C from tomatoes and the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can help strengthen the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Tomato Rice (approximately 1.5 cups) contains around 400-450 calories, primarily from the rice and oil used in the recipe.