Arroz De Tomate

This dish is a true taste of Portugal—humble, hearty, and bursting with bold, sun-drenched flavor. Arroz de Tomate is a staple in Portuguese kitchens, especially along the coast, where it’s often served alongside fresh fish or grilled meats. But don’t let its simplicity fool you—this rice is saucy, garlicky, and full of Mediterranean charm.

With ripe cherry tomatoes, smoky paprika, and a buttery finish, every bite feels like a warm hug from a Portuguese grandmother (even if you don’t have one!). It’s rustic, comforting, and made for gathering around the table with friends and family.

Serve it with grilled sardines, roasted veggies, or enjoy it solo—it’s a soulful dish that brings the flavors of Portugal straight to your plate.

Ingredients

1 ¼ cups cooked brown rice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup veggie stock or chicken broth
4 garlic cloves, crushed
½ onion, diced
450g ripe cherry tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ tsp smoked paprika (or more if you’re feeling bold!)
1 cup chicken broth (yes, another cup—this dish is all about layers!)
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp butter
Fresh coriander, for a pop of green at the end
½ tbsp white wine vinegar

Directions

Important tip: Get everything chopped, crushed, and ready to go before you turn on the heat—this dish moves fast once it starts!
Sauté & Sizzle:
In a large frying pan, heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the onion and crushed garlic. Let them soften and get fragrant—your kitchen should already smell amazing.
Tomato Time:
Add the chopped cherry tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it all up and cook for about 5 minutes, until the tomatoes start to break down and look jammy and juicy.
Deglaze & Delicious:
Pour in the white wine vinegar and let it bubble away for a few minutes. It should turn saucy and thick—exactly what you want.
Make it a Meal:
Stir in the cooked rice, veggie stock (or chicken broth), and bay leaves. Pop a lid on, reduce the heat to medium, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir every so often to make sure nothing sticks.
Add a splash more water if it starts drying out. You're aiming for saucy, shiny, and irresistible rice!
Final Touches:
Once the rice is tender and everything's looking luscious, turn off the heat and stir in the butter. Let it melt into all that tomatoey goodness.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh coriander, take a moment to admire your work, then dig in!
Serve it with: A crisp salad, grilled chicken, or enjoy it as a cozy vegetarian main. Either way, this dish is comfort food with a bold twist.