Traditional and tasty Tomato Rice Recipe
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Get ready to enjoy some delicious traditional tomato rice, or arroz de tomate! This tasty dish mixes garlic, onions, and spices with juicy tomatoes, making it a great side or a filling main course. Easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, it's the kind of comfort food that brings warmth and smiles to the table. Perfect for any meal, you’ll love the burst of flavor in every bite!
Tips for Success
• When sautéing the onions and garlic, make sure to cook them at medium heat until they're translucent but not browned. Browning can lead to a bitter flavor in the final dish.
• For added flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or turmeric. Adding 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds when frying the onions can enhance the overall taste of the rice.
• Avoid overcooking the rice by keeping the lid on during cooking and not lifting it too often. Once the water is added, allow it to simmer on low heat for exactly 18-20 minutes without stirring, as this can cause the rice to become mushy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of long grain white rice in this tomato rice recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio. Brown rice typically requires about 1.5 to 2 times the amount of water and takes 40-50 minutes to cook, so you'll need to ensure the rice is tender and fully cooked before serving.
What are some suitable substitutions for canola oil in this traditional and tasty tomato rice recipe?
You can substitute canola oil with vegetable oil, olive oil, or any neutral oil of your choice. If you're looking for a flavor twist, use coconut oil or avocado oil, which will impart slight variations in taste.
How should I store leftover tomato rice and how long will it last?
Allow the tomato rice to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, or reheat on the stove with a little water to prevent it from drying out.
Recommended Drink Pairings
- Chenin Blanc: This white wine's acidity complements the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the dish's flavors.
- Light Lager: A crisp and refreshing beer that balances the richness of the oil and garlic in the rice.
- Sparkling Water: The bubbles cleanse the palate, making each bite of the tomato rice feel fresh.
- Mint Tea: The herbal notes of mint provide a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
- Ginger Ale: Its sweetness and spice pair well with the savory and slightly tangy flavors of the rice.
Ingredients
Equipment:
Directions
- In a 4-quart pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the onions and garlic and stir-fry until golden.
- Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly toasted and fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the water, bay leaf, tomatoes and salt and bring to a boil.
- Cover and reduce the heat so that the rice just simmers.
- Cook undisturbed until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let stand covered without stirring for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, discard the bay leaf, and serve.
Adapted from a Recipe by: Emeril Lagasse, foodnetwork.com
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
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Reviews (8)
Hi Eileen, I do have a similar one, just add kale to taste: https://www.portugueserecipes.ca/recipe/1019/26/Portuguese-Bean-Rice-Recipe
Olive oil ✅





