Introduction:
Tomato Rice, also known as "Thakkali Sadam" in
South India, is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings together the rich
flavors of tomatoes and fragrant spices. It is a popular rice preparation that
is not only easy to make but also a delightful way to use ripe and juicy
tomatoes. In this blog post, we will explore the savory world of Tomato Rice,
from its traditional recipe to its calorie count, and even some frequently
asked questions and their answers.
Tomato Rice Recipe: A Burst of Flavors
Here's a classic and easy Tomato Rice recipe that will
leave your taste buds tingling with delight:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice (you can also use regular rice)
- 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 inch ginger, grated
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to spice
preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- A few curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1.
Wash the
rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 20-30 minutes. Drain the water
and keep the rice aside.
2.
In a pan or
cooker, heat oil or ghee on medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let
them splutter.
3.
Add grated
ginger, minced garlic, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute until the raw aroma
disappears.
4.
Add chopped
onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions turn translucent.
5.
Now, add
the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
6.
Add
turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt.
Mix well to coat the tomatoes with the spices.
7.
Add the
soaked and drained rice to the tomato mixture. Mix gently to combine
everything.
8.
Add 2 cups
of water (for regular rice) or as required depending on the rice you are using.
Adjust the water quantity if using a cooker.
9.
Cover the
pan or cooker with a lid and cook the tomato rice until the rice is fully
cooked and the grains are separate.
10.
Garnish
with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with raita or any side dish of your
choice.
Tomato Rice in a Cooker: Quick and Hassle-free
You can prepare Tomato Rice in a pressure cooker for a
quicker and hassle-free cooking process. Just follow the same recipe as above
and cook everything in the cooker as per the cooker's instructions.
Tomato Rice Calories: A Nutritious Meal
One serving of Tomato Rice contains approximately 200-250
calories, depending on the ingredients used and the cooking method.
Tomato Rice for Kids: A Tasty and Healthy Treat
Tomato Rice is a great option for kids as it combines the
tangy goodness of tomatoes with mild spices, making it a flavorsome and
nutritious meal.
FAQs: Answering Your Queries
Q: Can I use cooked rice to make Tomato Rice?
A: Yes, you
can use leftover cooked rice to make Tomato Rice. Just add the cooked rice to
the tomato mixture and gently mix until well combined.
Q: Is Tomato Rice spicy?
A: The spiciness of Tomato Rice
can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. If you prefer it less
spicy, reduce the amount of red chili powder or green chilies.
Q: Can I add vegetables to Tomato Rice?
A: Absolutely!
You can add various vegetables like peas, carrots, beans, or capsicum to
enhance the nutritional value and taste of Tomato Rice.
Conclusion:
Tomato Rice is a delightful and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With its tangy and aromatic taste, it is a favorite in South Indian households. The simple and easy-to-follow recipe allows you to make this delicious dish in no time. So, the next time you have ripe tomatoes on hand, try making Tomato Rice and treat yourself to a scrumptious and wholesome meal. Happy cooking!