South Indian · serves 2

Tomato Rice

One pot, pantry only, and it packs beautifully for tomorrow's lunch.

30 min Easy Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups rice
  • 5 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp chana dal
  • 15 curry leaves
  • 2 green chillies
  • 1 tsp sambar powder
  • 3 tbsp oil

Method

  1. Mustard seeds, chana dal, curry leaves, green chillies in oil.
  2. Onion till soft, then tomatoes and sambar powder. Cook till completely pulpy, 8 minutes.
  3. Add rinsed rice, salt, and 3 cups water.
  4. 2 whistles in a cooker, or covered 15 minutes in a pot.
  5. Rest 10 minutes, fluff with a fork. Papad on the side.

Questions people ask about Tomato Rice

How long does Tomato Rice take?

About 30 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is straightforward. Most of that is active, so read the method through before you start rather than chopping as you go.

What can I use instead of rice in Tomato Rice?

Use any long-grain rice. Basmati needs less water than most, so check the packet before following the ratio here.

Can I make Tomato Rice ahead of time?

Yes, and it is better for it. Cool it fully, refrigerate for up to three days, and reheat gently with a splash of water. The flavours settle overnight.

Is Tomato Rice vegetarian?

Yes, and as written it is vegan too. Check your specific brands if that matters to you.

Do I need a pressure cooker for Tomato Rice?

A cooker is faster but not essential. In an open pot, expect roughly three times the cooking time and keep an eye on the water level, topping up with hot water rather than cold.

What do you serve with Tomato Rice?

Papad on the side. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.

Don't know what to cook? Let it decide →

Read more on the technique

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