How are you all doing today?? I hope your kitchen is buzzing with good vibes and yummy aromas because today, I’m bringing you one of my all time favorite comfort foods – Tomato Rice!!
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Tomato Rice?? That’s such a simple dish!” And you’re absolutely right – it is simple. But here’s the thing : sometimes, the simplest dishes are the ones that touch your heart the most.
For me, this recipe is not just about rice and tomatoes. It’s about those cozy afternoons when you want something quick but full of flavour. The kind of dish that fills your kitchen with that warm, spicy, tangy aroma and instantly makes you hungry!
This tomato rice is a little different from the usual – it has a special homemade masala paste made with fresh tomatoes, coconut , and a few whole spices that give it a deep, rich taste.. The raisins add a tiny burst of sweetness, and the cashews give that perfect crunch.. Each bite has a balance of flavours – tangy, spicy, sweet and oh so comforting!!
Whether you’re a busy student, a working parent, or just someone looking for a quick, satisfying meal – this recipe is your best friend. It takes minimal effort, uses simple pantry ingredients, and tastes like something out of a restaurant maybe even better because it’s made with love..
I often make this on days when I don’t want to spend too much time in thi kitchen but still crave something soulful.. Pair it with a bowl of cool raita and a crunchy papad, and trust me – that’s pure bliss in a plate!!
So, if you’re never tried Tomato Rice this way before, today’s the day..Grab your pan, get those tomatoes ready, and let’s turn something simple into something truly special!!
Do visit my other recipes also so Must try this recipes!! from my blog with this post also, It includes
Zanzanit Puneri Mataki Bhel | A Crunchy, Spicy Street-Style Snack
Crispy Namkeen Samosa
Bedami Puri & Aloo ki Sabzi,
Kadu Puri with Aloo Matar ki Sabji,
Dhaba Style Amritsari Chole Bhature,
Protein-Rich Chole Paneer Recipe,
Lauki ki SabjiDelicious Sweet Potato kheer – Vrat Recipe, Sweet Potato Tikki, Kacchi Dabeli with homemade Dabeli masala, Power-Packed Protein Tikki, Samosa Recipe,
Zucchini & Paneer Toast – A Healthy & Delicious Breakfast,
Delhi-Style Tikki Chole Chaat: A Street Food Classic at Home
Crispy Rice Papadi: A Perfect Gluten-Free Tea-Time Snack,
High Protein Rich Moong Dal & Daliya Kheer,
Rava & Besan ke Ladoo further, do check my other recipes collection..
Ingredients
For the Masala Paste:
- Oil – 1 tbsp
- Dried Kashmiri red chilies – 2 (for color)
- Black peppercorns – 5–6
- Tomato – 1 large (roughly chopped)
- Ginger – a small piece
- Dried coconut – 1 tbsp
(Optional: 5–6 garlic cloves for extra flavor)
For the Tomato Rice:
- Oil – 2 tbsp
- Mustard seeds – ¼ tsp
- Cumin seeds – ¼ tsp
- Green cardamom – 2
- Cloves – 2
- Cinnamon stick – a small piece
- Star anise – ½ piece
- Green chili – 1 (slit)
- Cashews – 5
- Fresh green peas – ¼ cup
- Chopped tomato – 2 tbsp
- Curry leaves – 1 sprig
- Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
- Coriander powder – 1 tsp
- Red chili powder – ¼ tsp (or to taste)
- Salt – as per taste
- Raisins – 1 tbsp
- Fresh coriander leaves – 1 tbsp (chopped)
- Cooked rice – 1 bowl
Method
Step 1: Make the Tomato Masala Paste
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan.
- Add 2 dried Kashmiri red chilies, 5–6 black peppercorns, chopped tomato, ginger, and dried coconut.
(You can also add garlic for a deeper flavour.) - Sauté everything on medium heat until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy.
- Turn off the heat and let it cool down. Once cooled, blend it into a smooth paste. Your flavour-packed tomato masala base is ready!
Step 2: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
- In the same pan, heat 2 tbsp oil.
- Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, green cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon, and star anise.
- When they start to splutter, add the slit green chili, cashews, peas, chopped tomato, and curry leaves.
- Sauté for a few minutes until the peas and tomatoes are slightly cooked and everything smells amazing!
Step 3: Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- Mix well and cook for 2–3 minutes to let the spices release their aroma.
Step 4: Add the Tomato Paste
- Pour in the prepared tomato-coconut paste and mix well.
- Add a little water to loosen the masala and help it cook evenly.
- Let it simmer for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil starts to separate from the sides. This is when the masala turns rich and beautifully fragrant!
Step 5: Combine the Rice
- Add raisins and chopped coriander leaves to the masala.
- Now gently fold in the cooked rice — make sure not to break the grains.
- Mix until every grain of rice is coated in that spicy, tangy masala.
- Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
- Stir-fry on low flame for 2 more minutes. And that’s it! Your delicious, aromatic Tomato Rice is ready to serve!
Serve hot with, a bowl of cool cucumber or boondi raita, crispy papad on the side.. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as quick tiffin meal! If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Until next time – eat homemade, stay healthy and keep spreading love through food..
Tips & Tricks
- Use leftover rice: Day-old rice works perfectly here — it’s less sticky and absorbs the masala beautifully.
- For extra richness: Add a teaspoon of ghee at the end for that glossy finish.
- Spice level: Adjust red chili powder and green chili according to your taste.
- Add veggies: You can toss in carrots, beans, or corn to make it even more colorful and wholesome.
- Storage: Tomato rice stays great for up to 1 day in the fridge — just reheat with a splash of water before serving.
