Tomato Rice Recipe – Simple, Spicy & Full of Flavour
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 favourite 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. its 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 the 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 ‘ve 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!!
Ingredients
- 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
- Firstly, heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan.
- Now 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… our flavour-packed tomato masala base is ready!
Step 2 – Prepare the tadka
- In the same pan. heat 2 tbsp oil
- Then add 1/4 tsp mustard seeds, 1/4 tsp cumin seeds, 2 green cardamoms, 2 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 1/4 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1/4 tsp red chili powder, and salt as per taste.
- 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!
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
