For all Lykkers eager to try a simple yet flavorful dish that combines basic ingredients in a delightful way, this recipe of rice with tomato sauce and fried egg is a must.

Known as “arroz a la cubana” in many Spanish-speaking regions, this dish is cherished for its comforting taste and easy preparation. It is perfect as a standalone meal, thanks to its balance of carbohydrates and protein.

Ingredients Needed

- Rice: 400 grams of Arborio rice (or a similar short-grain rice). This type gives the dish a texture close to the traditional version.

- Tomato Sauce: 350 grams of pure tomato passata.

- Eggs: 4 fresh eggs.

- Olive Oil: Olive oil, used both in cooking and finishing.

- Seasoning: Salt and a pinch of sugar to balance the tomato acidity.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cooking the Rice

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, then pour in the rice. Stir gently at the beginning to avoid sticking. Cook until the rice is al dente, following the time suggested on the rice packaging.

Step 2: Making the Tomato Sauce

In a pan, pour the tomato passata. Add a pinch of salt and a small amount of sugar. Cook over medium heat for a few minutes, until the tomato thickens and loses excess water. Remove from heat and stir in a drizzle of olive oil to enhance flavor and texture. Set aside.

Step 3: Frying the Eggs

Heat a small amount of olive oil in a frying pan. Clean the eggs under running water before cracking. Lower the heat to medium-low, gently broke the eggs into the pan, and add a pinch of salt. Using a spoon, carefully baste the hot oil over the top of the eggs to cook the surface without flipping. This takes about 1–2 minutes until the white is set but the yolk remains soft.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

Drain the cooked rice and divide it onto serving plates. Spoon a generous amount of tomato sauce over the rice. Place one fried egg on top of each portion.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Mixing the Flavors: The traditional way to enjoy this dish is to cut the fried egg and mix it with the tomato sauce and rice, blending all textures and flavors for a comforting bite.

Accompaniments: For a complete meal, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh bread to soak up the sauce and egg yolk.

Visual Appeal: Serve with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a touch of color and freshness.

Storage and Leftovers

Keeping Fresh: Store leftover rice and tomato sauce separately in airtight containers inside the refrigerator. Use within 2 days for best taste.

Reheating: Warm the rice and sauce gently in a pan or microwave, stirring occasionally. Fry fresh eggs just before serving for the best texture.

Summary

This version of rice with tomato sauce and fried egg offers a simple, nourishing meal that can be prepared quickly and enjoyed any day of the week. The combination of soft rice, savory tomato, and rich fried egg creates a harmony of flavors appealing to many tastes.

With its low cost and easy ingredients, this dish is ideal for those looking for quick comfort food with a touch of tradition. Lykkers will find it satisfying and easy to make, a great addition to the recipe collection for everyday cooking. Enjoy this tasty dish, and explore the joy of mixing simple ingredients into something truly delicious!