Red Spicy Rice

Transform your dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful Red Spicy Rice recipe! This dish combines the nutty aroma of perfectly cooked basmati rice with a bold, zesty tomato-based sauce infused with warming spices like cumin, turmeric, and paprika. The heat from red chili powder, paired with the richness of sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger, creates a tantalizing base that clings to every grain of rice. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness, this one-pot wonder is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether served as a fiery side dish or a satisfying stand-alone meal, it’s the perfect choice for spice lovers looking to elevate their rice game. Ready in under 40 minutes, this easy recipe is a must-try for weeknight dinners and showcases bold, authentic flavors you’ll crave again and again!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon, grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons, chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon (optional) lime juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3

While the rice cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6

Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 7

Add the canned diced tomatoes, red chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Step 8

Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked rice to the skillet. Gently toss to coat the rice evenly in the spicy tomato sauce.

Step 9

Adjust the seasoning, if needed, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld together.

Step 10

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice, if desired, for extra freshness.

Step 11

Serve warm as a delicious side dish or enjoy it as a main course!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1196.2 grams (1196.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	716

Total Fat 36.00g	46%
Saturated Fat 5.90g	30%
Polyunsaturated Fat 18.90g
Cholesterol 5mg	2%
Sodium 2727mg	119%
Total Carbohydrate 91.00g	33%
Dietary Fiber 11.70g	42%
Total Sugars 19.30g
Protein 14.80g	30%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 231mg	18%
Iron 10mg	54%
Potassium 1428mg	30%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.4%

Protein: 7.9%

Carbs: 48.7%