Tomato Basil Rice

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water

Water is a cost-effective base, though it lacks flavor.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and adds richness.

red pepper flakes

🥗Healthier: fresh chili

💰Cheaper: black pepper

Fresh chili adds heat without extra cost.

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cook until translucent, 2 - 3 minutes. Add basil and cook for 20 seconds - don't let it burn.

Add remaining ingredients except basil. Mix until tomato paste is dissolved.

Crush basil sprig in hand, drop on surface then push in (leave on surface, don't stir).

Cover and bring to simmer, then immediately turn down heat to medium low (or low if stove is strong) and cook for 15 minutes or until liquid is fully absorbed - tilt saucepan to check.

Remove from heat and set aside, covered, for 10 minutes.

Remove basil sprig. Fluff with fork, taste for salt. Then leave to stand for another 5 minutes, uncovered. Stir through fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens