Neapolitan Style Rice with Tomato and Basil

Ingredients

In the original Surinamese Rain Rice, the dish is typically prepared with a combination of rice, chicken, and various vegetables, cooked in a flavorful broth. However, in this Neapolitan adaptation, the focus shifts to the vibrant flavors of tomatoes and basil. The chicken and vegetables are omitted, allowing the tomatoes and basil to take center stage. Additionally, the cooking technique and spices are adjusted to align with Neapolitan culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Rain Rice, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
• 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir well, ensuring each grain is coated with the oil.
3. 3.
   Pour in the white wine and cook until it evaporates, stirring continuously.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan and season with salt and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more.
6. 6.
   Continue adding the broth and stirring until the rice is cooked al dente, with a slight bite to it. This should take approximately 20 minutes.
7. 7.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped basil leaves.
8. 8.
   Cover the saucepan and let the rice rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Arborio rice — Use Arborio rice for its high starch content, which gives the dish a creamy texture.
• Fresh basil leaves — Add the basil leaves at the end to preserve their vibrant flavor and aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste while sautéing the onions and garlic.
• If you prefer a more intense basil flavor, you can garnish the dish with additional fresh basil leaves before serving.
• To make the dish more substantial, you can add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken as a topping.

Serving advice

Serve the Neapolitan Style Rice with Tomato and Basil as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or crusty bread. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled fish or roasted vegetables.

Presentation advice

Garnish the rice with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve it in a colorful ceramic bowl to enhance the visual appeal.