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+ servings

Tomato Basil Rice

A delightful dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes with fragrant basil, perfect for quick dinners or as a side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the base

  • 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1/2 medium brown onion, finely chopped
  • 1 1/4 tsp dried basil

Main ingredients

  • 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked (180g)
  • 1 3/4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (435 ml)
  • 2 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3/4 tsp paprika (sweet or normal, not smoked)
  • 1 tsp sugar (any)
  • 1 sprig basil with leaves
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped basil

Instructions
 

Preparation

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

Cooking

  • Add the remaining ingredients except chopped basil. Mix until the tomato paste is dissolved.
  • Crush the basil sprig in your hand, drop it on the surface, and push it in (leave it on the surface, don’t stir).
  • Cover and bring to a simmer, then immediately turn down the heat to medium-low (or low if your stove is strong) and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed.
  • Remove from heat and set aside, covered, for 10 minutes.
  • Remove the basil sprig. Fluff with a fork, taste for salt, then leave it to stand for another 5 minutes, uncovered. Stir through fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, add a bit of water or broth.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Keyword easy side dish, Quick Meal, Rice Recipes, Tomato Basil Rice, Vegetarian Dinner
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