Tomato Rice with Basil
Recipe for Love with Recipes
Introduction
Tomato Rice with Basil is a fragrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This dish combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and the vibrant essence of basil. The rice absorbs the savory and tangy flavors, making it a delightful, comforting meal that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a healthy, quick meal, this dish is infused with the richness of extra virgin olive oil and seasoned with a dash of black pepper, making it a truly delicious experience.
Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch, Tomato Rice with Basil is a dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table. You can serve it on its own or pair it with a refreshing raita of your choice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (White or Brown) | 1 cup |
| Tomatoes | 3 medium |
| Green Chilli (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | A few sprigs |
| Garlic (crushed) | 7 cloves |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As needed |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | As required |
| Water | As needed |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | For garnish |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Serving Size
- Serves: 5 people
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Indian
Course
- Course: Main Course (Lunch)
Dietary Information
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tomatoes:
Begin by placing the tomatoes in a saucepan with a little water. Cook the tomatoes over medium heat until the skin begins to peel off. This should take about 10 minutes. -
Peel and Chop the Tomatoes:
Once the skins have started to peel away, remove the tomatoes from the heat. Peel off the skins and finely chop the tomatoes into small pieces. Set them aside for later use. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and finely chopped green chilies. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the raw smell dissipates. -
Add Tomatoes and Basil:
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan along with the fresh basil leaves. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the basil to infuse the oil with its aroma. -
Cook the Rice:
Add the rice, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir to combine and let the rice absorb the tomato and basil mixture for a couple of minutes. -
Add Water and Cook the Rice:
Add enough water to cook the rice (usually 2 cups of water for 1 cup of rice). Stir everything together, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let the rice cook until it’s fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander (dhania) or additional basil leaves for a fragrant finish. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Tomato Rice with Basil as a standalone dish or with a side of raita (yogurt-based side dish) for added creaminess and flavor.
Tips and Variations
- For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a pinch of cumin seeds or mustard seeds while sautéing the garlic and green chili.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the number of green chilies or add some red chili powder.
- To make this dish more hearty, consider adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
- You can also top the rice with a sprinkle of grated cheese for an indulgent twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
Tomato Rice with Basil is a versatile and fragrant dish, perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings the best of fresh ingredients to the table, offering a wonderful balance of flavors. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch or a special meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Tomato Rice with Basil today!
