Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (cooled and fluffy)
• 3 medium ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste

• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp urad dal
• 1 tsp chana dal
• 10–12 curry leaves
• 2 dried red chillies

• 1 green chilli, slit
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare Rice: Cook rice separately, spread it on a plate, and allow it to cool completely.
2. Heat Oil: Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
3. Add Lentils: Add urad dal and chana dal. Sauté until golden.
4. Add Aromatics: Add dried red chillies, curry leaves, and green chilli. Sauté briefly.
5. Cook Tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, salt, and red chilli powder. Cook until tomatoes turn soft and oil separates.
6. Add Masala: Add garam masala and mix well.
7. Mix Rice: Add cooked rice and gently mix until well coated with tomato masala.
8. Serve: Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy one-pot style meal
• Uses simple everyday ingredients
• Perfect for lunchbox
• Comforting South Indian flavours
• Customisable spice level

Common Mistakes

• Using hot rice
• Under-cooking tomatoes
• Over-mixing rice
• Adding too much water

Variations

Veg Tomato Rice: Add carrots, beans, or peas.
Spicy: Increase red chilli powder.
Kids Friendly: Reduce chillies and spices.

Personal Note

Tomato rice is my go-to recipe when I need something quick yet satisfying. The aroma of curry leaves and tomatoes cooking together instantly feels homely. Served with curd and papad, it makes a complete comforting meal.