Persian Tomato Rice Recipe

Greetings and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, we are excited to share with you a delicious recipe for Persian Tomato Rice. This rice dish is a popular staple in Persian cuisine, bursting with flavors from aromatic herbs, saffron, and juicy tomatoes. With the help of your trusty rice cooker, you’ll have perfectly cooked rice with a crispy bottom layer, creating a tantalizing texture that will leave you wanting more. So, grab your rice cooker and let’s get cooking! We’ve made this persian tomato rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 3 cups water
• 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground saffron
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash the rice thoroughly and soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add 1 medium diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
4. Add 3 large diced tomatoes to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tomato juice has been released.
5. Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon ground saffron, salt, and pepper to taste to the pot. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
7. Add 3 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
9. Let the rice rest for a few minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve hot.

How long does persian tomato rice last in the fridge?

Persian tomato rice can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to 4 or 5 days, provided it is stored in an airtight container. To ensure maximum freshness, it is recommended to cool the rice down to room temperature before placing it in the fridge. When reheating the rice, make sure it is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. It is not recommended to freeze persian tomato rice as the texture may become mushy after thawing.

Low calorie persian tomato rice recipe substitutions

To make this Persian tomato rice recipe lower in calorie, the vegetable oil can be substituted with a healthier alternative like olive oil or coconut oil. It is also possible to use less oil overall by reducing the amount called for in the recipe. Additionally, using brown rice instead of basmati rice can make this dish more wholesome and lower in calorie. It’s also possible to reduce the amount of rice used, opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes, and avoid adding any extra salt. Finally, using saffron sparingly and avoiding adding any additional sugar can help cut down on calories. These adjustments will make the recipe flavorful while also making it a healthier option.

What to serve with a persian tomato rice?

Persian tomato rice is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that is usually served as a main course. It is typically accompanied by various side dishes, such as salad, yogurt, or grilled vegetables. If you want to enhance the flavors of the dish, you can serve it with some roasted chicken, lamb, or beef, or add some nuts and dried fruits to the rice. You could also serve it with a side of tzatziki or hummus to add a Middle Eastern twist to the meal. A simple tomato and cucumber salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil would be a great refreshing accompaniment to the rich tomato rice.

Whats the best sauce for a persian tomato rice?

The best sauce for Persian tomato rice is Mast-o-Khiar, which is a traditional yogurt and cucumber sauce. Its creamy and refreshing taste perfectly complements the rich and tangy flavors of the tomato rice. To make Mast-o-Khiar, mix yogurt, diced cucumbers, dried mint, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. You can also add some chopped garlic and lime juice for a more flavorful sauce. Drizzle the Mast-o-Khiar over the tomato rice or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious and authentic Persian meal!

Persian tomato rice health benefits

Persian tomato rice has a number of health benefits. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which is an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates which provides fuel for your body and brain. Moreover, when cooked with the right spices and seasonings, Persian tomato rice can support digestion, improve immunity and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, it is a delicious and nutritious meal that you can enjoy in moderation. If you are looking for other healthy recipes, I suggest trying quinoa and roasted vegetable salad or a hearty lentil soup.