Masala tomato rice |MALDIVIAN STYLE

rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: bulgur

Quinoa is a protein-rich alternative, while bulgur is more affordable.

tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: canned tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are often less expensive and save prep time.

cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: green onions

Parsley adds freshness, while green onions are budget-friendly.

green chilies

🥗Healthier: jalapeños

💰Cheaper: bell peppers

Jalapeños maintain heat, while bell peppers offer sweetness.

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering.

Add mustard seeds and cook until they begin to pop.

Stir in chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Incorporate chopped tomatoes and green chilies, cooking until tomatoes soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in curry leaves, turmeric, coriander powder, and cumin powder, cooking for 2 minutes.

Add rinsed rice and stir until well coated with spices, about 2 minutes.

Pour in water and salt, bringing to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.

Fluff rice with a fork and mix in chopped cilantro and lemon juice.

Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: