Introduction
Tomato Basil Rice is a delightful and fragrant dish that brings together the rich flavors of tomatoes and fresh basil. This simple yet satisfying recipe combines rice with a few key ingredients, creating a delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or as a base for a hearty vegetable stir-fry, this Rice dish is a favorite for its vibrant taste and appealing aroma.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Long-grain rice: 1 cup
– Chicken or vegetable broth: 2 cups
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Garlic cloves, minced: 2
– Onion, chopped: 1
– Canned diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz)
– Fresh basil, chopped: ¼ cup
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
Prep Time
The preparation for Tomato Basil Rice takes about 10 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and chopping the onion and basil, ensuring everything is ready for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, resulting in a total time of around 30 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it ideal for a family meal or entertaining guests. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the comforting essence of this Tomato Basil Rice recipe!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients: rice, tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, basil, and olive oil.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they start to break down.
Step 5: Add Rice
Add the rice to the pot, stirring well to coat the rice with the tomato mixture.
Step 6: Pour in the Broth
Add vegetable broth to the pot, making sure the rice is fully submerged.
Step 7: Cook the Rice
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for around 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
Step 8: Add Basil
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in fresh basil.
Step 9: Serve
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Rice Type
Use long-grain rice for the best texture; other rice varieties may require different cooking times.
Note 2: Fresh vs. Dried Basil
Fresh basil is preferred for flavor, but if using dried basil, reduce the quantity as it is more concentrated.
Note 3: Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 4: Variations
Feel free to add vegetables or protein of your choice for a more substantial meal.
Cook techniques
Cooking rice
Rice should be rinsed before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming gummy.
Sautéing onions
Cook the onions until translucent in oil before adding other ingredients to build flavor.
Infusing flavors
Adding garlic and basil during the sautéing process enhances the flavor profile of the rice by infusing it with aromatic essences.
Simmering
After adding the broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover to allow the rice to simmer evenly.
Resting the rice
Let the cooked rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow it to steam, which helps achieve a better texture.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and water amounts since brown rice typically requires more time to cook.
What type of broth works best?
Vegetable or chicken broth can be used, depending on your preference for flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the rice?
Absolutely! You can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or zucchini for added nutrition and taste.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply use vegetable broth and ensure that any added ingredients, like cheese, are vegan-friendly.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
The Tomato Basil Rice is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fresh ingredients and comfort food. Whether served as a stand-alone meal or a side dish, its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite in any kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Tomato Basil Risotto
Make a creamy risotto using the flavors of tomato and basil for a rich, comforting dish.
Caprese Salad
Combine fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a refreshing salad that pairs well with any tomato-based rice dish.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Complement your rice with a colorful stir-fry of seasonal vegetables to add crunch and nutrition.
Grilled Chicken with Tomato Salsa
Serve grilled chicken topped with a zesty tomato salsa for a delicious protein option alongside the rice.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mix of Tomato Basil Rice and ground meat or beans for a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Pasta Primavera
Create a light pasta dish using spring vegetables and a touch of tomato basil for a fresh taste.
Garlic Bread
Pair your Tomato Basil Rice with garlic bread for a perfect side that adds an extra layer of flavor.