Tomato Rice With Basil

Quick and simple, this is nice with any fried meat or fish. Serve something green like salad, green beans or peas alongside for a nice contrast of colors. NOTE: Edited version for improved rice-water-ratio.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 2-3

Ingredients

• 1  cup long-grain rice
• 1  cup diced tomato (fresh or canned)
• 1  cup hot water (3/4 cup if using canned tomatoes)
• 1 -2  garlic clove, cut into thin slices
• 2  tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (use 1 t dried basil alternatively)
• 3⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 1⁄2 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Directions

1. Heat oil, fry garlic until fragant but don't let it brown; Add tomates, stir until hot.
2. Add rice, basil, salt,(sugar, red pepper) and water; Bring to a boil, reduce heat to minimum and cook covered until done, 18-20 minutes.
3. Add black pepper and a little more fresh chopped basil if you like and serve garnished with some basil leaves.