Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of Basmati rice
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Add the coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Mix well.
6. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they are soft and mushy.
7. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Mix well.
8. Add 4 cups of water and salt to taste. Mix well.
9. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
10. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water has been absorbed.
11. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
12. Fluff the rice with a wooden spoon.
13. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Low heat for cooking the rice
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 350
- Total fat: 7g
- Total carbohydrates: 65g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with any other cooking oil.
- Basmati rice can be substituted with any other long-grain rice.
- Cumin seeds can be substituted with ground cumin.
- Coriander powder can be substituted with ground coriander seeds.
- Turmeric powder can be substituted with fresh turmeric root or ground turmeric.
- Red chili powder can be substituted with paprika or cayenne pepper.
Variations:
- Add diced vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier and richer flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch and results in fluffier rice.
- Use a wooden spoon to fluff the rice to avoid breaking the grains.
- Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preference.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the rice in a large bowl or on a platter.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves or sliced tomatoes.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Lemon wedges
Pairings:
- Raita (yogurt dip)
- Papadum (thin and crispy Indian crackers)
- Chutney (spicy condiment)
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Naan bread
- Tandoori chicken
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is undercooked, add a splash of water and cook for a few more minutes.
- If the rice is overcooked, reduce the cooking time in the next batch.
Food safety advice:
- Wash your hands before handling food.
- Use clean utensils and cookware.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Tomato rice is a popular dish in South Indian cuisine, especially in the state of Tamil Nadu.
Flavor profiles:
- The dish has a spicy and tangy flavor from the tomatoes and spices.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the rice as a main dish or as a side dish with other Indian dishes.
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