This comforting Tamatar Bhat is a vibrant Indian-inspired rice dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful meal. The base of fluffy basmati rice is gently simmered in a rich, reduced sauce of pureed ripe tomatoes, aromatic coriander, and caramelized onions. The result is a dish with a deep, savory tomato flavor and a slightly tangy finish, accented by the warmth of ground spices. It serves as an excellent side dish to complement curries or stands alone as a light vegetarian main. The texture is moist but not soupy, with each grain coated in the fragrant sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck contributions, this recipe is vegan-friendly and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
Tamatar Bhat (Tomato Pilaf
Description
This comforting Tamatar Bhat is a vibrant Indian-inspired rice dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful meal. The base of fluffy basmati rice is gently simmered in a rich, reduced sauce of pureed ripe tomatoes, aromatic coriander, and caramelized onions. The result is a dish with a deep, savory tomato flavor and a slightly tangy finish, accented by the warmth of ground spices. It serves as an excellent side dish to complement curries or stands alone as a light vegetarian main. The texture is moist but not soupy, with each grain coated in the fragrant sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck contributions, this recipe is vegan-friendly and easy to prepare with pantry staples.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until light brown and softened, about 7 minutes.
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Stir in the ground coriander and let it sizzle for 25 to 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the pureed tomatoes and 1/2 cup of water. Mix well to combine.
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Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the mixture reduces to a thick, pulpy sauce.
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Stir in the cooked rice, 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper.
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Gently fold the rice into the tomato sauce until evenly coated.
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Add 3 tablespoons sweet butter (or a vegan substitute) and fold to coat the rice evenly.
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Cover the skillet tightly and steam the rice over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce is fully absorbed.
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Turn off the heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 139.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11.9g19%
- Saturated Fat 1.7g9%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 7.7mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.6g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
- Sugars 4.2g
- Protein 1.7g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
