SECTIONS :
- Ingredients Breakdown
- Step-by-Step Process
- Q&A Section
- Benefits of This Tomato Rice Recipe
- Additional Tips for Best Results
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Roma tomatoes (2): Roma tomatoes are ideal for this recipe because they’re meaty and low in moisture, which helps create a thicker, more concentrated tomato sauce. Blending them will give your rice a rich, fresh tomato flavor.
- Onion (piece): A piece of onion adds sweetness and depth to the flavor of the rice. You don’t need too much; just enough to complement the tomatoes. If you want a smoother texture, you can blend it with the tomatoes, or if you prefer some onion texture, chop it up.
- Salt (1 tbsp): Salt is essential for seasoning. However, keep in mind that the Knorr tomato bouillon and any other seasonings you add will also bring saltiness, so you may want to adjust the amount of salt depending on personal taste or the saltiness of your bouillon.
- Garlic powder and onion powder (to taste): These are key in adding a background flavor that complements the fresh tomato and fried rice. The garlic and onion powder enhance the savory notes without overwhelming the dish.
- Knorr tomato bouillon (1 tbsp): Knorr bouillon cubes or powder are packed with umami flavor and provide a depth of taste to the tomato mixture. This bouillon is essential in giving the rice that signature « tomato rice » flavor that’s savory and rich.
- Cumin (1 tsp): Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor, which is a common spice in Latin American cooking. It brings out the aromatic, slightly smoky profile of the dish.
- Hot water (4 cups): The hot water helps blend everything smoothly and becomes the cooking liquid that the rice will absorb. Using hot water speeds up the cooking process, preventing the rice from becoming mushy.
- Oil (1/4 cup): The oil is used for frying the rice, giving it a golden color and a slightly crispy texture on the outside. It also helps the rice absorb the tomato broth without sticking to the pan.
- Long grain or jasmine rice (2 cups): Long grain rice or jasmine rice works best for this recipe because it cooks up fluffy, with each grain remaining separate. Jasmine rice adds a subtle floral aroma, while long grain rice is a classic choice for Mexican rice. Both types work well in absorbing the tomato broth.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Preparing the Tomato Mixture:
- Start by washing your Roma tomatoes and cutting them into chunks. Peel and chop the onion into smaller pieces. Add the tomatoes, onion, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Knorr bouillon, cumin, and 4 cups of hot water into a blender or food processor.
- Blend everything until smooth. You should have a vibrant red mixture that’s well-seasoned with the right balance of tomato and spices.
- Frying the Rice:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 cup of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking, so test it by dropping a small grain of rice into the pan—if it sizzles, you’re ready to go.
- Add the rice to the hot oil and stir continuously to ensure the grains are coated in the oil. Continue frying for about 5–7 minutes, or until the rice is golden brown. This step is crucial because it helps the rice retain its shape during cooking and adds a nutty flavor that balances the richness of the tomato sauce.
- Incorporating the Tomato Mixture:
- Once the rice is fried and golden, carefully pour in your blended tomato mixture. Be cautious as it may splatter due to the hot oil. Stir the mixture to ensure all the rice is evenly coated with the tomato broth.
- Taste the mixture at this point. If it needs more salt or seasoning, this is your chance to adjust before the rice starts cooking. If you prefer a slightly more tangy flavor, you can add a squeeze of lime juice or a bit more cumin.
- Cooking the Rice:
- Once the tomato mixture is well-incorporated, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and allow the rice to cook without stirring. This is very important—if you stir the rice during this stage, it can become mushy.
- Let it cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed by the rice. The rice should be tender but still fluffy. If you notice that there is still liquid after 20 minutes, you can uncover the skillet and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
- Finishing the Rice:
- Once the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is fully cooked, turn off the heat, but keep the skillet covered for an additional 5–10 minutes. This resting period helps the rice firm up and ensures it’s fluffy.
- After the resting time, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. This will give you that perfect texture with a slight, savory richness from the tomato sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Tomato rice pairs perfectly with grilled meats like chicken, beef, or pork, and it also works well as a side dish for tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas. You can garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade tomato rice! The key to this dish is balancing the seasonings and allowing the rice to cook undisturbed to achieve that light, fluffy texture.
Q&A Section:
Q1: Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
- A1: Yes, you can! While long grain or jasmine rice are the best options for this recipe due to their fluffy texture, you can also use Basmati rice or even short-grain rice, though the texture may differ slightly. Just be mindful that short-grain rice tends to be stickier.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- A2: Absolutely! Tomato rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring it back to life. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe?
- A3: Yes! If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder to the blended tomato mixture. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some hot sauce or ground chili on top when serving for a controlled level of heat.
Q4: Is it possible to make this recipe without using Knorr bouillon?
- A4: Yes, you can skip the Knorr tomato bouillon, but you’ll need to replace it with additional seasonings. Try using a little more cumin, garlic, and onion powder, and a bit of vegetable or chicken broth for extra flavor. Some people even use a bit of tomato paste for a more concentrated tomato taste.
Q5: How can I make this recipe vegan?
- A5: To make the recipe fully vegan, use vegetable oil and vegetable bouillon instead of the Knorr tomato bouillon, which may contain animal products. Additionally, make sure your seasoning choices (like salt and spices) are free from non-vegan ingredients.
Benefits of This Tomato Rice Recipe:
- Rich in Flavor:
- The combination of fresh tomatoes, spices, and the caramelization of fried rice results in a deeply flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. The use of Knorr tomato bouillon adds an umami depth that balances the rice and tomato perfectly.
- Customizable:
- This recipe is highly customizable to suit different dietary needs and taste preferences. You can adjust the level of seasoning, add extra spices, or incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers or peas to increase the dish’s nutritional value.
- High in Carbohydrates:
- Rice is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing a steady energy release. It’s a great option for maintaining energy throughout the day, especially if you’re pairing it with protein-rich foods like grilled chicken or beans.
- Low in Fat:
- Although this recipe uses oil for frying, it’s still relatively low in fat compared to other rice dishes. You can reduce the amount of oil if you prefer a lower-fat version, or use a healthier oil like olive oil.
- Good Source of Fiber:
- Tomatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health. Additionally, long-grain rice contains more fiber than white rice, especially if you opt for brown rice, which is even higher in fiber.
- Rich in Antioxidants:
- Tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its potential benefits to heart health and its ability to fight free radicals in the body. The spices used in this recipe, such as cumin and garlic powder, also contain antioxidant properties that may contribute to overall well-being.
- Versatile Meal:
- Tomato rice can be served alongside a variety of main dishes, including meats, fish, or even as a standalone vegetarian meal. It can also be served cold as a rice salad or in burritos or wraps for a tasty, portable meal.
- Affordable & Easy to Make:
- The ingredients for this recipe are generally inexpensive and easy to find. It’s a budget-friendly way to prepare a flavorful side dish that can serve a large group. The simplicity of the recipe also makes it ideal for beginners in the kitchen.
Additional Tips for Best Results:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Rice: When frying the rice, make sure there is enough oil and space in the pan. Overcrowding can result in uneven frying and may cause the rice to become soggy rather than crispy.
- Use Hot Water for a Quick Cooking Time: Always use hot water for the tomato broth mixture. This speeds up the process and ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors more efficiently.
- Rest the Rice: Don’t skip the resting step after the rice absorbs all the liquid. This allows the grains to firm up and become perfectly fluffy.
This recipe provides a well-rounded, flavorful dish with numerous benefits—perfect as a side or main, depending on how you serve it!