Persian Tomato Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Persian Tomato Rice, also known as “Polo Gojeh Farangi,” is a simple yet flavorful dish made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basmati rice, and warm spices. It’s a beloved comfort food in Iranian households and can be served as a main or side dish. The rich tomato flavor combined with fluffy rice creates a savory and satisfying meal that’s both hearty and easy to make.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

basmati ricetomatoes (fresh or canned)oniongarlictomato pasteturmericground cinnamonvegetable oil or butterwater or vegetable brothsaltpepper

directions

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.

In a large skillet or pot, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in turmeric and a pinch of cinnamon, followed by tomato paste. Cook for a couple of minutes to deepen the flavor.

Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and create a thick sauce.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot. Gently stir to combine with the tomato mixture.

Pour in water or broth just enough to cover the rice by about 1 inch.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add a layer of thin potato slices at the bottom of the pot for a crispy “tahdig” crust.

Stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.

Top with caramelized onions or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Serve with a side of yogurt or a fried egg for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store Persian Tomato Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What type of tomatoes work best?

Ripe fresh tomatoes are ideal, but canned crushed or diced tomatoes work well too.

Can I make this dish without tomato paste?

Yes, but tomato paste adds depth and richness. You can increase the amount of fresh tomatoes instead.

Is Persian Tomato Rice spicy?

No, it’s typically mild, but you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but cooking time and liquid amounts will need adjustment.

Can I prepare this in a rice cooker?

Yes, sauté the base in a pan, then transfer to a rice cooker and cook as usual.

What’s the best way to get fluffy rice?

Rinse and soak the rice, and avoid stirring it too much while it cooks.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for a heartier version.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, as long as you use oil instead of butter and water or vegetable broth.

What sides go well with it?

Yogurt, cucumber salad, pickles, or grilled vegetables make great accompaniments.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and scale ingredients accordingly.

Conclusion

Persian Tomato Rice is a vibrant and comforting dish that delivers big flavor with minimal ingredients. Its versatility makes it perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe whenever you crave something hearty, aromatic, and delicious.

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