Dinner

Tomato Rice Recipe

Bylilan Sage December 19, 2025December 19, 2025

Introduction

Tomato rice is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines savory spices with tender rice and juicy tomatoes. It’s an easy weeknight meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains or can be enjoyed on its own.

A white plate filled with one layer of orange-colored rice mixed with small pieces of cooked tomato and onion, topped with scattered slices of green onion. Two green lime wedges rest on the left side of the rice. On the right side of the plate, there is a black spoon and fork placed parallel to each other. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a black and white zigzag patterned cloth partially visible at the bottom left. At the top right, a small brown bowl with a whole white garlic bulb is visible, and next to it, a halved lime shows its juicy green inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cloves garlic
1 yellow onion
2 Tbsp cooking oil
1.5 cups long grain white rice
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1 15oz. can petite diced tomatoes
1 Tbsp tomato paste
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Mince the garlic and finely dice the onion. Add the onion, garlic, and cooking oil to a saucepot and sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent.
Step 2: Add the rice, chili powder, and cumin to the pot. Continue to stir and cook for a couple of minutes more to toast the rice and spices.
Step 3: Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, and broth to the pot. Stir to combine and dissolve any spices stuck to the bottom.
Step 4: Place a lid on the pot, turn the heat up to high, and let the broth come to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Let the rice simmer gently for 20 minutes without lifting the lid or stirring. After 20 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let the rice rest for five minutes, keeping the lid on.
Step 6: After resting, fluff the rice with a fork to distribute the tomatoes evenly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving.
Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer taste.
To make it spicier, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftover tomato rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with orange-colored rice mixed with small pieces of red tomatoes and light brown cooked onions, topped with thin slices of green onions scattered on top. On the left side of the plate, there are two lime wedges. A woman's hand is holding a lime wedge above the plate. On the right side of the plate, a black spoon and fork are placed side by side. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a gray and white zigzag patterned cloth partially visible on the left and a wooden bowl containing garlic in the upper right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will need a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth to about 2.5 cups and cook for around 40-45 minutes until tender.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as written. Just be sure to use vegetable broth or water if you want to keep it plant-based.