Tomato Rice

 Tomato Rice is a flavorful and aromatic South Indian dish made with cooked rice and tangy tomatoes. It's a quick and easy one-pot meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with raita or papad. Here's a recipe to prepare Tomato Rice:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust according to spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add cumin seeds and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
4. Add chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
5. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
6. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
7. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes to allow the spices to blend with the tomatoes.
8. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Mix gently to coat the rice with the tomato mixture.
9. Add 2 cups of water to the pan and stir everything together.
10. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
11. Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
12. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
13. Serve the Tomato Rice hot on its own or with raita or papad.

Enjoy the flavorful and delicious Tomato Rice!