Arroz - Fried Rice
Fried rice with tomatoes, garlic, and onions offers a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, showcasing simple ingredients turned delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse rice according to directions; mash garlic with 1/2 teaspoon salt to make a paste.
- Set aside.
- Heat oil in a large pot; add rice.
- Cook and stir over medium heat until lightly browned. Add onion and garlic paste.
- Cook and stir until onion is tender. Add tomatoes; cook and stir until tomatoes are softened and blended into rice mixture.
- Add water and tomato sauce. Cover and simmer until water is absorbed, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to very low and steam for 30 to 40 minutes until rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil during cooking. If you prefer, substitute long grain rice with jasmine or basmati rice for a different aroma. Adding a handful of frozen peas or diced bell peppers can introduce more color and nutrition to your fried rice. For a protein boost, include scrambled eggs or cooked chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried rice as a standalone dish or as a side alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu. It pairs beautifully with Fried Spinach for a nutritious meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arroz - Fried Rice contains roughly 627 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2490mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust the simmering time to ensure the brown rice is tender without overcooking the other ingredients.
What can I add to make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit any meat and consider adding tofu or tempeh for protein. You can also incorporate various vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers to enhance the dish's flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your fried rice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha while cooking. You could also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy chili sauce on the side.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).