⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 1 servings

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

🍽 Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 cup Tomato puree
• 1 cup Rice
• 1 1/2 cups Vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup Fresh basil, chopped
• to taste Salt and pepper

📖 Instructions

1. First things first, gather your ingredients! Make sure everything is at room temperature for even cooking. This part is super important, trust me.
2. Next, we’ll start by prepping the tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, roughly chop them. If using canned, drain them well, but don't worry about being too precise here – rustic is best!
3. Now, heat up some olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your garlic and sauté for about a minute. Don't burn it, keep a close eye on it, it goes from perfect to burnt in a flash!
4. Add the chopped tomatoes (or puree) to the pot and let them cook down for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You're aiming for a slightly thickened, flavorful tomato base.
5. Once the tomatoes have softened and released their juices, stir in your rice. Make sure all the rice grains are coated in the tomato mixture. Then, add the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
6. After boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. If using a rice cooker, follow the manufacturer's instructions – it’ll take roughly the same amount of time.
7. While the rice is simmering, grate your Parmesan cheese and chop your fresh basil. This is a great time to clean up your workspace too. You deserve a clean kitchen!
8. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and half of the fresh basil. The creamy texture is amazing at this point, oh my!
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, or some extra herbs. It is crucial to taste your food – this is where you make it your own!
10. Finally, serve your Creamy Tomato Rice Bowl in warm bowls, and garnish with the remaining basil. You're going to love this so much – trust me.

📝 Notes

• For a richer flavor, use high-quality olive oil and fresh tomatoes.
• If you don’t have vegetable broth, you can substitute chicken broth, but the flavor will be different.
• If you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, just make sure to add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking so they don't become overcooked.