Name: Persian Style Tomato Pilaf: Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups basmati rice, soaked for 30 minutes and drained; 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped (or 1 ½ cups canned diced tomatoes); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon turmeric; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 ½ cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth; ½ cup fresh dill, finely chopped (can substitute with dried dill, use 2 tablespoons); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional); Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced (optional garnish); Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional garnish); Fried shallots or onions (optional garnish)

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Persian Style Tomato Pilaf has a way of transporting me straight back to my childhood kitchen, filled with the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes and fluffy basmati rice. My grandmother, who hailed from Iran, would make this dish every Sunday, and the house would fill with the most incredible scents. I remember the vibrant red hue of the rice, studded with soft pieces of tomato, and the subtle warmth of spices. This isn’t just rice; it’s a hug in a bowl! It’s a simple yet deeply flavorful Persian tomato rice that is perfect for any meal. Let’s get this delicious pilaf cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible dish! It’s more than just a side; it’s a flavorful journey.

Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and warm spices creates a depth of flavor you won’t forget.
Perfectly Fluffy Rice: We’ll guide you to achieve that signature fluffy, separate grain texture that’s key to any great pilaf.
Simple & Satisfying: Despite its complex flavor, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a comforting side or a delicious vegetarian main course.
Authentic Persian Pilaf Experience: This recipe stays true to traditional methods, offering you a genuine taste of Iran.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.
Aromatic Delight: The scent of this cooking will fill your home with warmth and anticipation.
True Authentic Persian Pilaf: You’ll be making a dish that’s a staple in Persian homes, full of heritage and taste.

Ingredients for Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to a truly delicious Persian tomato rice. This recipe uses simple components to create a vibrant and flavorful dish.

1 ½ cups basmati rice – soak this for 30 minutes and drain well for the fluffiest grains.
2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee – choose your favorite fat for sautéing.
4 cloves garlic, finely minced – the aromatic base of our pilaf.
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped – about ½ cup, adds sweetness.
4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped – or 1 ½ cups canned diced tomatoes for convenience; these give our tomato rice Persian style its signature color and tang.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 teaspoon turmeric – for that beautiful golden hue and earthy notes.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – a subtle warmth that’s classic in Persian cooking.
Salt to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper to taste – adds a gentle spice.
2 ½ cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth – the liquid needed to cook the rice perfectly.
½ cup fresh dill, finely chopped – or 2 tablespoons dried dill; this herb adds a wonderful freshness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) – brightens the flavors.
Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced (optional garnish) – for a cool, crisp contrast.
Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional garnish) – for a delightful crunch.
Fried shallots or onions (optional garnish) – adds another layer of savory flavor.

How to Make Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

Making this flavorful Persian tomato rice is a rewarding process. Follow these steps for a delicious, aromatic dish.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, rinse the basmati rice under cool running water until the water runs mostly clear, then soak it in cold water for about 30 minutes before draining well. This is a crucial step for achieving fluffy grains.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped, and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the 4 cloves garlic, finely minced, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until you can really smell that wonderful garlic aroma.
Step 3: Add the 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped (or your canned diced tomatoes) to the pot. Cook them down, stirring occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize, releasing their juices. Stir in the 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon turmeric, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. This is where the magic of our dill garlic tomato pilaf starts to happen.

Persian Style Tomato Pilaf: Delicious & Easy Recipe - Persian Style Tomato Pilaf - main visual representation

Step 4: Add the drained rice to the tomato mixture in the pot. Stir very gently to coat all the rice grains with the flavorful tomato base. Pour in the 2 ½ cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for 18–20 minutes. You’ll notice the liquid is absorbed and the rice is steaming.
Step 6: Remove the pot from the heat, but keep the lid on. Let the rice sit and steam for an additional 10 minutes. This resting period is essential for perfectly cooked pilaf.
Step 7: Gently fluff the rice with a rice paddle or fork. Carefully fold in the ½ cup fresh dill, finely chopped, and the optional 1 tablespoon lemon juice. This addition of fresh dill truly elevates the dill garlic tomato pilaf, adding a bright, herbaceous note.

Step 8: Garnish your beautiful Persian Style Tomato Pilaf with sliced Persian cucumbers, toasted nuts, or fried shallots if you like. Serve this delicious Iranian tomato rice warm as a delightful side dish or a vegetarian main.

Pro Tips for the Best Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

Achieving that perfect fluffy, flavorful pilaf is all about a few key details. These tips will elevate your Persian tomato rice game.

Always use good quality basmati rice and don’t skip the soaking and draining step – it’s crucial for texture.
A heavy-bottomed pot is your best friend here; it ensures even heat distribution and prevents the bottom from scorching.
Don’t rush the resting period after cooking; letting the pilaf steam undisturbed is vital for perfectly cooked grains.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; salt and pepper make all the difference in bringing out the flavors of your tomato rice Persian style.

What’s the secret to perfect Persian Style Tomato Pilaf?

The secret lies in the rice preparation – soaking and rinsing basmati rice until the water runs clear, followed by the crucial resting period after cooking. This ensures incredibly fluffy, separate grains, making it a truly authentic Persian pilaf. For more tips on rice preparation, check out our latest recipes.

Can I make Persian Style Tomato Pilaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components ahead! Sauté the onion and tomato base up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Cook the rice fresh for the best texture, or gently reheat pre-cooked pilaf over low heat with a splash of water. If you’re looking for other make-ahead meals, consider these slow cooker birria tacos.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Persian Style Tomato Pilaf?

Avoid over-stirring once the rice is added, as this can make it gummy. Also, ensure your pot lid fits tightly to trap steam effectively, which is essential for cooking the rice through properly. For more cooking techniques, explore our guide on making ground beef and broccoli.

Best Ways to Serve Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

This versatile Persian Style Tomato Pilaf is wonderful on its own, but it truly shines when paired thoughtfully. It’s a fantastic base for many meals.

As a Vegetarian Main: Serve a generous portion of this flavorful Iranian tomato rice topped with a dollop of plain yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal.
With Grilled Meats: This pilaf is a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken skewers (jujeh kabob) or lamb chops. The fragrant rice complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
Alongside Stews: It’s an excellent partner for rich Persian stews like Khoresh Gheymeh (split pea stew) or Khoresh Bademjan (eggplant stew). The fluffy rice soaks up the delicious sauce wonderfully.

Nutrition Facts for Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

Here are the estimated nutritional values for one serving of this delightful Persian Style Tomato Pilaf. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy flavorful grains with a good balance of nutrients.

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 450mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more healthy options, consider our carnivore diet recipes.

How to Store and Reheat Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your delicious Persian Style Tomato Pilaf later. This method ensures your Persian rice storage is simple and effective, keeping the flavors intact.

Cool Completely: Once cooked, let the pilaf cool down to room temperature on the counter for about an hour. Don’t leave it out for too long, though!
Container Choice: Transfer the cooled pilaf into airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best. You can also divide it into smaller portions for easier reheating.
Refrigeration: Store the airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. This keeps the rice fresh and safe to eat.
Freezing for Later: For longer storage, you can freeze your Persian Style Tomato Pilaf for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Reheating Methods: To reheat, gently warm the pilaf in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring halfway, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions About Persian Style Tomato Pilaf

What makes this Persian Style Tomato Pilaf authentic?

The authenticity comes from using traditional Persian cooking techniques and ingredients. This includes the proper soaking and rinsing of basmati rice, the slow cooking down of tomatoes and aromatics, and the gentle folding in of fresh herbs like dill. It captures the essence of what you’d find in an Iranian home.

Can I add meat or other proteins to this Persian tomato rice?

Absolutely! While this is a delicious vegetarian Persian tomato rice, it’s a fantastic base for proteins. You can mix in cooked shredded chicken, lamb, or even chickpeas and lentils after the rice has steamed. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled kebabs or a flavorful stew. If you enjoy chicken, try our garlic honey lime chicken.

How do I make the rice extra fluffy for this Persian tomato rice recipe?

The key is thoroughly rinsing and soaking the basmati rice to remove excess starch, followed by draining it very well. Also, avoid over-stirring the rice once it’s in the pot, and always allow it to rest undisturbed after cooking. This steaming process is crucial for achieving light, separate grains.

What are the best garnishes for Persian Style Tomato Pilaf?

For added texture and flavor, consider garnishes like toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts, fried crispy shallots, or a sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped parsley. Thinly sliced Persian cucumbers also add a refreshing crunch that complements the warm spices beautifully.

Variations of Persian Style Tomato Pilaf You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Persian Style Tomato Pilaf, you’ll find it’s a wonderful canvas for creativity. Here are a few delicious Persian tomato rice variations to explore:

Herbed Rice Delight: Amp up the herbs by adding finely chopped parsley and cilantro along with the dill. This creates a more complex, fresh flavor profile, making it a vibrant Persian tomato rice variation.
Spiced Tomato Pilaf: For a richer, deeper taste, consider adding a pinch of cumin or coriander along with the turmeric and cinnamon. This adds an extra layer of warmth, reminiscent of spiced rice dishes from across the Middle East.
Quick Skillet Method: If you’re short on time, you can adapt this into a quicker one-pot meal. Sauté the aromatics and tomatoes, add the rice and liquid, and cook uncovered over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Vegetarian Persian Tomato Pilaf with Lentils: For a protein boost, stir in a ½ cup of cooked brown or green lentils along with the dill. This makes the pilaf even more substantial and satisfying, perfect for a complete vegetarian meal.