Vary Mena
Vary Mena, meaning 'red rice,' is a flavorful and visually appealing rice dish cooked with tomato paste, onions, garlic, and often a touch of ginger and turmeric, giving it its characteristic reddish-orange hue. It's a staple that can be served as a side dish or a light main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Rice(long-grain white rice, rinsed)
- 3 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(freshly grated (optional))
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder(optional, for color and flavor)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 4 cups Water or broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a medium saucepan or pot over medium heat.
- 2
Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and grated ginger (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste and turmeric powder (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the tomato paste darkens slightly.
- 5
Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the tomato mixture. Toast the rice for about 1 minute.
- 6
Pour in the water or broth. Add salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 7
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- 8
Let the rice steam, covered, off the heat for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the rice is well-rinsed to remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of tomato paste to achieve your desired color and flavor intensity.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spice.
- Incorporate diced carrots or peas for added texture and nutrients.
- Serve with a side of grilled fish or chicken.