Arroz de Tomate
Portugal is known for its rich culinary traditions that date back centuries. From its famous seafood dishes to its hearty stews, Portugal has a diverse array of meals that are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. One of the most popular dishes in Portugal is Arroz de Tomate, a delicious rice dish that is made with fresh tomatoes, farm-fresh herbs, and a range of spices.
Arroz de Tomate, or simply tomato rice, is a staple in the Portuguese diet. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and full of nutritional value. It is said that this dish has been enjoyed by Portuguese families for generations, and it remains a favorite today. Whether you are looking for a hearty meal for your family, or you are hosting a dinner party, this Arroz de Tomate recipe is sure to impress.
The recipe includes a blend of fresh ingredients that are perfect during the summertime. The tomatoes used in the recipe are ripe and juicy, and are the perfect accompaniment to the rice. The rice is cooked with onions, garlic, and a range of herbs, giving it an aromatic and flavorful taste. This dish is versatile, as it can be served as a side dish or a main course.
To begin the recipe, you will need to gather your ingredients. The key ingredients are rice, ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs. The rice used in this recipe should be short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Carnaroli. The tomatoes should be ripe and juicy, with a sweet flavor. The onions should be sweet and soft, and the garlic should be chopped finely.
To prepare the dish, begin by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan, along with a pinch of salt, and continue to cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down. Add the rice to the pan, along with a pinch of saffron, paprika, and oregano. The aroma of the spices will fill the air, and you will know that the dish is already starting to come together.
Add water or chicken broth to the pan, enough to cover the rice, and stir well. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. The result is a delicious and fragrant dish that is full of Mediterranean flavors.
In conclusion, this Arroz de Tomate recipe is a tasty and nutritious meal that is perfect for any occasion. It is a simple and easy recipe that can be adapted to your personal taste, by adding different ingredients to suit your preferences. It is a dish that showcases the best of Portugal’s culinary heritage, and is sure to delight anyone who tries it. So, next time you are looking for inspiration in the kitchen, try this Arroz de Tomate recipe and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup Portuguese rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 bay leaf
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add the rice and stir until coated with the oil.
- Pour in the water, tomato puree, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, and cover.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork.
- Transfer the arroz de tomate to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve hot as a side dish with meat, fish, or vegetables. Enjoy!