How to cook Nasi Tomato (Spicy & Non Spicy)

Nasi Tomato is a popular Malaysian dish known for its flavorful blend of spices and tangy tomato sauce. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed either as a spicy or non-spicy version, depending on your preference. Whether you are a fan of spicy food or prefer a milder taste, this dish can be easily customized to suit your taste buds.

To cook Nasi Tomato, you will need a few key ingredients such as rice, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices including turmeric, chili, and cumin. The dish is typically cooked by first sautéing the onions and garlic in a pan until they become fragrant. Then, the spices are added and cooked until they release their aromas. The chopped tomatoes are then added and cooked until they soften and form a thick sauce.

If you prefer a spicy version of Nasi Tomato, you can add extra chili to the spice mixture or use hotter varieties of chili. On the other hand, if you prefer a non-spicy version, you can reduce or omit the chili altogether. Once the tomato sauce is ready, you can either mix it with the cooked rice or serve it as a side dish. Nasi Tomato pairs well with a variety of meats and vegetable dishes, making it a versatile and delicious meal option.

What is Nasi Tomato?

The main ingredient in Nasi Tomato is, of course, tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes are preferred as they add a sweet and tangy flavor to the rice. The tomatoes are usually pureed or chopped and then cooked with onions, garlic, and various spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. This mixture is then combined with the rice, which is cooked in the tomato-infused broth. The result is a vibrant and flavorful rice dish that is both visually appealing and delicious.

To make Nasi Tomato, the rice is typically cooked using the absorption method, where the rice absorbs all the flavors from the tomatoes and spices. This method ensures that the rice is perfectly cooked and infused with the flavors of the tomato mixture. Once cooked, the Nasi Tomato is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves or fried onions for added flavor and texture.

The origin and ingredients of Nasi Tomato

The main ingredients used in Nasi Tomato include:

• Basmati Rice: This long-grain rice variety is commonly used for its fragrance and fluffy texture.
• Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are the key ingredient that gives the dish its distinct flavor and vibrant red color.
• Spices: A combination of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and cardamom are used to infuse the rice with their aromatic flavors.
• Onions: Finely chopped onions are sautéed to provide a savory base for the dish.
• Garlic and Ginger: These ingredients add depth and flavor to the rice.
• Chili: Depending on the desired level of spiciness, chili can be added to give the dish a kick.
• Oil: Cooking oil, such as vegetable oil or ghee, is used to sauté the onions and spices.
• Water: Water is added to cook the rice and ensure it is fluffy and well-cooked.
• Salt: Salt is added to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Optional Ingredients: Additional ingredients, such as chicken, beef, or shrimp, can be added to make the dish more hearty and protein-rich.

Nasi Tomato is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served on its own or as a side dish to accompany various curries and meat dishes. Its vibrant color and aromatic flavors make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

How to Cook Spicy Nasi Tomato?

To begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of long grain rice
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 red chilies, sliced
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
• 1 cup of tomato puree
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice thoroughly and set it aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced red chilies to the pan. Cook until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Next, add the chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder to the pan. Mix well to coat the onions and spices.
5. Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
6. Add the washed rice to the pan and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt to taste.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan.
9. Allow the rice to simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until it is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
10. Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and serve hot.

This Spicy Nasi Tomato recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spiciness in their meals. The combination of spices and tomatoes creates a flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Serve it with your favorite meat or vegetable dish for a complete meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Spicy Nasi Tomato

1. Prepare the ingredients:
• 1 cup of basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 red chillies, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon of chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup of water
• Salt to taste
2. Wash and soak the rice:

Start by washing 1 cup of basmati rice until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for around 30 minutes.

3. Sauté onions and garlic:

In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan, and sauté until they turn golden brown.

4. Add spices:

Add the thinly sliced red chillies, chilli powder, and turmeric powder to the pan. Stir well to combine the spices with the onions and garlic.

5. Add tomatoes:

After the spices are well combined, add the diced tomatoes to the pan. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes become soft and slightly mushy.

6. Cook the rice:

Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Stir well to coat the rice with the tomato and spice mixture. Add 1 cup of water and salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.

7. Simmer:

Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

8. Fluff and serve:

Once the rice is cooked, use a fork to fluff the rice and mix it with the tomato and spice mixture. Serve the Spicy Nasi Tomato hot and enjoy!