Pin it
This aromatic tomato rice transports you directly to the Aegean coast with its intense flavor of sun-ripened tomatoes and Mediterranean herbs. The perfect balance between savory rice and juicy tomato sauce makes it an ideal side dish or a satisfying standalone meal.
In my kitchen, this dish is especially popular when I'm longing for vacation flavors. The combination of simple ingredients creates a surprisingly authentic taste experience.
Carefully Selected Ingredients
- Long-grain rice: For light, grainy texture
- Vine tomatoes: Fresh and aromatic
- Crushed tomatoes: Base for the velvety sauce
- Gyros seasoning: Typical Greek flavor note
- Olive oil: For authentic Mediterranean taste
Detailed Preparation
- Creating the Base:
- Sauté onions until translucent
- Gently fry garlic
- Toast tomato paste
- Allow flavors to develop
- Rice Preparation:
- Briefly sauté rice
- Incorporate spices
- Add liquid
- Cook evenly
- Tomato Sauce:
- Stir in tomato mixture
- Simmer gently
- Monitor consistency
- Add more liquid if needed
- Finalization:
- Taste and season
- Let rest briefly
- Fold in herbs
- Serve immediately
In my family, this rice is especially popular as a side dish to grilled meat or fish. The tomato sauce makes it the perfect complement to any Greek main course.
Pin it
Regional Variations
Every Greek region has its own version of tomato rice. In Crete, cinnamon is often added. In the Aegean, fresh seafood is included. The mainland version uses more vegetables like bell peppers. For a particularly authentic variation, try a pinch of cinnamon and fresh dill.
Creative Additions
Refine the rice with various ingredients. Black olives add Mediterranean depth. Diced zucchini bring additional vegetables. A handful of crumbled feta before serving makes it creamier. For meat lovers, fried chicken strips are a good match.
Optimal Rice Selection
Long-grain rice is best suited for the traditional version. Its slightly nutty flavor perfectly complements the tomato sauce. Alternatively, basmati rice works for a lighter consistency. For a creamier version, risotto rice can be used, which releases more starch.
Storage and Reheating
The tomato rice keeps in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add some water or broth to prevent it from drying out. It's excellent for meal prep and sometimes tastes even better when reheated, as the flavors have had time to develop.
Pin it
Traditional Serving Suggestion
In Greece, this rice is often served as a side dish to grilled meat or fish. With tzatziki and Greek salad, it becomes a complete meal. Fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice just before serving further enhance the flavors.
After many years of experience with Mediterranean rice dishes, this version has proven to be the perfect balance between authenticity and everyday practicality. The combination of juicy tomato sauce and aromatic spices makes this rice a versatile side dish or a satisfying main course. I find it particularly fascinating how these simple ingredients create such an authentic vacation feeling on your plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Which rice should I use for tomato rice?
- Long grain rice works best as it doesn't clump and the individual grains remain nice and loose. Basmati or jasmine rice also work well.
- → Can I prepare the tomato rice in advance?
- Yes, the rice tastes very good reheated and keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a little water.
- → What can I use instead of gyros seasoning?
- You can use a mixture of oregano, thyme, cumin and coriander. Rosemary and basil also go well with the Mediterranean flavor.
- → Why add sugar to tomato rice?
- A pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the natural tomato flavor. But you can omit it if you prefer.
- → What does tomato rice taste best with?
- Tomato rice pairs perfectly with grilled meats like gyros, souvlaki or chicken, as well as with feta cheese and Greek salad. It also tastes good as a standalone vegetarian dish.
- → Can I replace fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes?
- Yes, instead of fresh vine tomatoes, you can also use diced canned tomatoes. However, you should still keep the strained tomatoes.