Easy Tomato and Egg Rice

Easy Tomato and Egg Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines fluffy rice with savory tomatoes and scrambled eggs. The tomatoes are sautéed until juicy and tender, releasing their natural sweetness, then mixed with eggs that are scrambled into the mix, creating a creamy, comforting texture. The rice absorbs all the savory flavors, making each bite satisfying and full of depth. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting and light.

The first time I made this, I was looking for something quick and easy but still packed with flavor, and it became an instant favorite! The tomatoes provide a fresh burst of sweetness, while the eggs add richness and a smooth texture. What I love most about Easy Tomato and Egg Rice is how versatile it is—you can adjust the seasoning, add extra vegetables like onions or bell peppers, or even top it with herbs like cilantro or green onions. It’s a great go-to dish that’s satisfying, customizable, and perfect for any meal of the day!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Meal prep
  • Lunchbox meals
  • Tomato and egg lovers
  • Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Easy Tomato and Egg Rice will become your go-to comfort food:

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients like tomatoes, eggs, and rice—easy to find and always on hand.
  • Balanced Flavor: The sweetness of tomatoes and the richness of eggs create a harmonious, comforting dish.
  • One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
  • Perfectly Cooked Eggs: The eggs are soft and creamy, adding a wonderful texture to the dish.
  • Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or add vegetables to suit your taste.
  • Satisfying and Filling: The rice base makes this a complete meal that’s both comforting and filling.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with vitamins and protein, it’s a nutritious meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
  • Budget-Friendly: An affordable meal that’s perfect for tight budgets.
  • Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make this a great choice for picky eaters.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

For the Rice:

  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

The Tomato and Egg Mixture:

  • 2 large tomatoes, diced
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Ingredient Highlights

  • Tomatoes: Provide a burst of freshness and tang, complementing the richness of eggs.
  • Eggs: Soft and creamy, they add protein and texture to the dish.
  • Sesame Oil: Gives the dish a warm, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  • Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: Adds depth of umami flavor to the tomatoes and eggs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

  1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook Rice: Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, breaking up any clumps. Set aside.

Prepare the Tomato and Egg Mixture:

  1. Sauté Tomatoes: In the same pan, add a little more oil and sauté the diced tomatoes for 4-5 minutes until soft and juicy.
  2. Season: Stir in soy sauce, sugar, and optional oyster sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. Add Beaten Eggs: Push the tomatoes to one side and pour the beaten eggs into the other side of the pan. Allow them to cook gently, stirring occasionally until they are just set but still soft.
  4. Combine: Stir the eggs and tomatoes together until evenly mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

  1. Assemble the Dish: Place a serving of rice on each plate and top with the tomato and egg mixture.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Easy Tomato and Egg Rice:

  • As a Quick Dinner: Serve it as a light dinner after a long day.
  • For Meal Prep: Pack individual portions in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
  • With Soup: Pair it with a light soup for a comforting meal.
  • With Pickles: Serve alongside some pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
  • As a Lunchbox Meal: Perfect for taking to work or school.
  • With Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.
  • With Chili Oil: Drizzle a little chili oil for a spicy kick.
  • For a Brunch Spread: Serve with other egg dishes like scrambled eggs or an omelette.
  • With Tofu: Add tofu for extra protein and texture.
  • With a Fried Egg: Top the rice and tomato mixture with a fried egg for added richness.

Additional Tips

  • Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, use day-old rice, as it holds together better and doesn’t become mushy when cooked with the tomatoes and eggs.
  • Adjust the Tomato Ripeness: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If tomatoes are too tart, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley just before serving can brighten up the dish and add a fresh, aromatic note.
  • Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the soy sauce or add a splash of fish sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
  • Top with Chili Flakes: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top or add fresh chopped chili to the stir-fry.
  • Add Protein: For an extra boost, throw in some diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a heartier meal.
  • Fry the Eggs Separately: If you prefer your eggs with a crispy edge, fry them separately and add them on top of the rice just before serving.
  • Use a Wok: A wok is ideal for this dish as it allows the ingredients to cook evenly and gives them a nice sear.
  • Incorporate Vegetables: Add peas, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add color to the dish.
  • Serve with Pickles: Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi to add tangy flavor and a crunchy texture contrast.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the oyster sauce and use soy sauce to keep it plant-based.
  • Spicy Version: Add sliced chili peppers or a tablespoon of chili paste for heat.
  • Garlic Tomato and Egg Rice: Add minced garlic to the tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Tomato and Egg Fried Rice: Use cold rice for a crispy fried rice version of this dish.
  • Brown Rice Option: Swap the white rice for brown rice for a healthier alternative.
  • Shrimp Tomato and Egg Rice: Add shrimp for a seafood twist on this classic dish.
  • Cheese Version: Sprinkle some cheese on top for a creamy, melty finish.

Special Equipment

  • Wok or Large Skillet: To cook the tomatoes, eggs, and rice in one pan.
  • Spatula: For stirring the ingredients and scrambling the eggs.
  • Rice Cooker (Optional): For perfectly cooked rice every time.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
    Yes, canned tomatoes work well, just drain the liquid before using.
  2. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, you can cook everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
  3. Can I freeze this dish?
    While the dish is best fresh, you can freeze the tomato and egg mixture separately from the rice for up to 1 month.
  4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
    Yes, brown rice works perfectly, but it may require longer cooking time.
  5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
    Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, peas, spinach, or any veggies you like.
  6. How do I store leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  7. Can I make this dish spicier?
    Yes, add chili peppers, chili paste, or hot sauce to the dish to suit your heat preference.
  8. Can I add meat to this dish?
    Yes, adding cooked chicken or beef works well with this dish.
  9. How do I make this dish vegan?
    Use tofu or omit the eggs and oyster sauce for a vegan version.
  10. How do I keep the eggs soft and creamy?
    Be sure to cook the eggs gently over medium-low heat and stir them slowly.

Conclusion

Easy Tomato and Egg Rice is a simple yet delicious one-pan dish that combines the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the richness of scrambled eggs, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food in a hurry. The tomatoes are sautéed until soft and juicy, and then eggs are added, cooked until tender, and mixed in with the rice, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

This dish can be customized with additional ingredients like garlic, onion, herbs, or even a dash of soy sauce for added depth. The balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, along with the soft texture of the eggs and rice, makes this dish both comforting and nourishing.

I can’t wait to see how your Easy Tomato and Egg Rice turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!