Tomato Rice Mix

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this spicy and aromatic tomato dish, perfect as a side or a delightful dip. This recipe transforms fresh tomatoes and an array of fragrant spices into a delectable treat for your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 8 ripe tomatoes
• 10 dried red chillies
• 1/4 cup oil
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp channa dal
• 1 tsp urad dal
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 cardamom pods
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise
• 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 green chilli, chopped
• 3 tbsp cashew nuts
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tsp salt, divided
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• 1 additional tomato, chopped
  
  Instructions:
  

1. In a saucepan, bring 8 tomatoes and 10 dried red chillies to a boil. Cook for 5 minutes, then blend into a smooth puree. Set aside to cool.
   
2. In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup oil and 2 tbsp ghee. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds, 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp channa dal, 1 tsp urad dal, 3 bay leaves, 3 cardamom pods, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 1 star anise, and 1/2 tsp asafoetida. Stir until the spices splutter and release their enticing aromas.
   
3. Add the minced ginger, minced garlic, chopped green chilli, and 3 tbsp cashew nuts to the skillet. Cook until the mixture turns a delicious golden brown.
   
4. Stir in the sliced onion and sauté for 1 minute. Add 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, and 1 tsp salt. Cook on low heat until the spices become aromatic and blend harmoniously.
   
5. Add 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves and 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves to the skillet. Sauté until the herbs release their fragrant essence.
   
6. Pour in the cooled tomato-red chilli puree, stirring well to combine. Cook for 5 minutes, then add the chopped tomato and 1 tsp salt. Mix well.
   
7. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, or until the oil separates from the tomatoes, infusing the dish with a rich and tantalizing flavor.
   
   Serve this sumptuous tomato delight alongside rice, flatbread, or as a dip for your favorite snacks. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the warmth of a homemade treat that will surely leave you craving more.