Eaten by the Spoon: Tomato Rice

Tomato rice is a type of rice dish prepared with rice, fresh tomatoes or tomato paste, and various spices. In some regions, vegetables such as peppers, onions, or carrots are also added. It can be consumed as a side dish with main courses or on its own.

We don't know about you, but we eagerly await summer to make this rice pilaf with a lightly browned base and plenty of tomatoes inside. Even in winter, we always make and enjoy it with the tomato preserves we prepared in the summer! This unique pilaf, whose aroma and taste will make everyone want a spoonful the moment it arrives at the table, pairs perfectly with meat dishes, chicken dishes, delicious yogurt-based appetizers, and salads with plenty of olive oil.

This recipe, which is economical with its minimal ingredients and will be a feast for the eyes of your guests with its beautiful color, will surely delight you if you try it and enjoy it.

Don't miss out on these delicious tomatoes in season, let's get cooking! Enjoy your meal!

Ingredients for Tomato Rice Recipe

3 large tomatoes (they should be juicy and soft)

2 tablespoons of butter

2 cups of rice

2 cups of lukewarm water

2 teaspoons of salt

1/2 level teaspoon black pepper

1/2 level teaspoon of powdered sugar

The Secret to Perfect Tomato Rice Recipe

You can adjust the amount of juicy tomatoes used in making rice pilaf as desired. The amount of water you need to add will vary depending on the type and quality of rice you use. You can also adjust the water according to the size of the tomatoes you use.

How to Make Tomato Rice Pilaf?

For the tomato rice, place 3 tomatoes in a food processor and blend until you have a slightly chunky puree.

Put 2 cups of rice in hot water and let it sit for about 10 minutes to release its starch.

Wash the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.

Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the saucepan and melt it.

Add the rice on top.

Sauté the rice, stirring constantly. Don't wait for it to become completely translucent; just let it lightly brown. If you overcook it, the rice will break when you add the cold tomato puree.

Add the tomato puree to the saucepan.

After stirring with the puree for 1-2 minutes, add the water and reduce the heat to low.

After adding 2 teaspoons of salt, 1/2 level teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 level teaspoon of black pepper, cover and cook until the rice absorbs the tomato juice. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest, covered with a cloth or napkin.

Once your tomato rice has rested and simmered well, it's ready. Enjoy!

Cooking Suggestions for Tomato Rice Recipe

Instead of using tomatoes blended in a food processor, you can use tomato juice or puree. Using beef broth instead of chicken broth will make it more flavorful. You can also add a small amount of milk to the tomato rice, reducing the amount of hot water.

Serving Suggestions for Tomato Rice Recipe

You can sprinkle finely chopped parsley on top before serving.

Which type of rice is suitable for tomato rice pilaf?

Baldo rice or Osmancık rice are best suited for tomato rice pilaf.

Can tomato puree or canned tomatoes be used in tomato rice?

Yes, both fresh tomato puree and canned tomatoes can be used.

How to store leftover tomato rice?

It should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How to reheat tomato rice?

When reheating rice, you can use a pot or pan.

What to do if tomato rice turns out mushy?

To firm up the mushy rice, transfer it to a pot, add some hot water, and heat over low heat, stirring constantly.

How many calories are in tomato rice?

A medium portion of rice with tomatoes contains approximately 180-200 calories.