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This Crispy Parmesan Tomato Rice has quickly become one of my favorite comfort foods. It is cozy and creamy but with a crispy top that makes it feel a little special. The juicy cherry tomatoes burst with freshness while the rich Parmesan melts into the rice, forming that golden crust I can never resist.
I first made this on a weeknight when the fridge was nearly empty. My family loved it so much they asked for it again the next day.
Ingredients
- Jasmine rice: one cup is best for its fluffy texture and light aroma
- Olive oil: two tablespoons adds richness and helps toast the rice
- Cherry tomatoes: halved and juicy bring brightness and acidity
- Parmesan cheese: half a cup grated gives bold flavor and crispy top
- Garlic: minced for a savory aromatic base
- Small onion: chopped finely to blend easily and sweeten the dish
- Chicken or vegetable stock: two cups for depth and moisture
- Fresh basil: chopped for a fragrant herbal finish
- Salt and pepper: to bring everything together and enhance flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and ensure a fluffy result
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a non stick skillet over medium heat then add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for three minutes until soft and fragrant
- Toast the Rice:
- Add the rice and stir well to coat every grain in oil and aromatics cook for three minutes until slightly golden and nutty
- Cook the Rice:
- Pour in the stock bring to a gentle boil then cover and simmer over low heat for fifteen minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed
- Add the Cheese and Tomatoes:
- Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the rice place the cherry tomatoes on top pressing gently into the surface
- Create the Crispy Crust:
- Raise the heat to medium and cook uncovered for five to seven minutes without stirring to allow the cheese to brown and crisp
- Finish and Garnish:
- Remove from heat sprinkle with fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste
- Serve Immediately:
- Enjoy while the top is golden and crisp and the bottom remains creamy and tender
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The Parmesan is my favorite part It melts into the rice and becomes beautifully crisp on top My daughter calls it rice pizza and we all fight over the edges
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a skillet to restore crispness or microwave for a quick warm up
Ingredient Substitutions
Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version Try mozzarella or pecorino if you do not have Parmesan Cherry tomatoes can be swapped with grape or diced Roma
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a hearty dinner Try pairing with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal
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Cultural Context
This dish takes inspiration from Italian flavors where tomato basil and Parmesan are classic companions It feels like a rustic rice casserole elevated with that cheesy crust
Recipe Questions
- → How do I get a crispy Parmesan crust?
After cooking the rice, add the Parmesan and tomatoes on top and cook uncovered without stirring. This allows the cheese to crisp properly.
- → Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, long grain or basmati rice also works well. Just avoid short-grain or sticky varieties to maintain fluffy texture.
- → Is this dish vegetarian?
It can be! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
- → Can I substitute the cherry tomatoes?
Grape tomatoes or diced plum tomatoes are good alternatives. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for best flavor.
- → What herbs go well with this dish?
Fresh basil is ideal, but parsley, oregano, or thyme also work depending on your flavor preferences.
- → Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, reheat in a skillet to revive the crisp texture, or use a microwave for convenience, though it may soften the crust.