Craving a quick, delicious, and utterly satisfying meal? Look no further than Lazy Tomato Rice, affectionately nicknamed "Moon Fun" for its vibrant red hue reminiscent of a full moon. This easy one-pot Chinese recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're simply longing for comfort food with minimal fuss. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe champions simplicity, using readily available ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavour. The sweet and tangy tomato sauce perfectly complements the fluffy rice, creating a harmonious blend that will leave you wanting more.
This simple yet impressive dish is surprisingly versatile, easily adaptable to your personal preferences. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s both rewarding and unbelievably easy? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of delicious Moon Fun (Lazy Tomato Rice).
Tools Needed
- Instant Pot
- Rice Cooker
- Regular Pot
- Blender
- Paring Knife
Ingredients
- Shallot
- Garlic: a few cloves
- Ginger: 1/2 inch
- Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp
- Oyster Sauce: 1.5 tbsp
- Dark Soy Sauce: 1.5 tbsp
- Jasmine Rice: 2 cups
- Water: 1.5 cups (Instant Pot), 2 cups (other methods)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Tomato: 1 large
- Peas
- Corn
- Carrot
- Ham (or Spam)
- Sichuan Sausage (optional)
- Beef (optional)
- Cornstarch (optional)
- Oil: a couple tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Sauté Aromatics
- Blend shallot, garlic, and ginger.
- Sauté aromatics in oil in Instant Pot (or rice cooker/pot) until fragrant.
- Add soy sauces and stir until bubbling; caramelize for flavor.
Step 2. Combine Rice and Ingredients
- Add rinsed rice and stir thoroughly.
- Pour in water and salt; mix well.
- Cut a cross in a tomato and place in the center of the rice.
- Arrange your favorite ingredients (peas, corn, carrots, ham, sausage, beef, etc.) around the tomato.
Step 3. Cook the Rice
- Close lid, set valve to sealing, and press rice button. For stovetop: Cook over medium heat until simmering, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20 minutes.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Remove tomato skin and mix everything together.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Use cured meats for less prep time.
- Marinate fresh meat beforehand.
- The dark layer at the bottom is flavorful, not burnt.
- Add ingredients your family likes.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 20-35g
- Carbs: 80-100g
- Protein: 15-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! One 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes works perfectly as a substitute for fresh tomatoes. Just drain the excess liquid before adding them to the pot.
2. What can I add to make it spicier?
For extra heat, add a small chopped chili pepper or a dash of chili garlic sauce along with the tomatoes. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
So there you have it – your own batch of delicious and easy Lazy Tomato Rice (Moon Fun)! This one-pot wonder is a testament to how simple and satisfying home-cooked meals can be. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite additions to make it your own.