Indulge in this typically Portuguese dish, the “malandrinho” tomato rice. This dish perfectly complements fried fish dishes and it is a rice dish that traditionally is served between very creamy to a bit soupy, topped with aromatic herbs like parsley or coriander.
Creating this marvelous dish starts with a flavorful sauté like most portuguese dishes, setting the stage for a truly Portuguese experience hehehe. The tomato rice holds a special place in Portuguese homes and pairs delightfully with various meals, especially fried dishes, let’s check the recipe!
Typical Portuguese Tomato Rice

Ingredients
- Carolino Rice – 2 cups
- Onion – 1 (Chopped)
- Garlic – 2 cloves (Chopped)
- Tomatoes – 300 grams (Cubed)
- Bay Leaf – 1
- Coarse Salt – A Pinch
- Paprika – 1 Teaspoon
- Olive Oil – As Needed
Directions
- Finely chop the onion, garlic cloves, and cube the tomatoes.
- Begin by making a sauté to elevate the dish’s flavor. In a pot, pour a little olive oil, add the chopped onion and bay leaf. Cook for three minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- After the previous step, add the prepared garlic, stir, and wait for a minute to cook and infuse its flavor and aroma. Then, sprinkle in the paprika and mix everything thoroughly.
- Add the cubed tomatoes into the pot, stirring well to blend the flavors. Let it simmer on low heat for an additional three minutes.
- Next, add the two cups of Carolino rice, ideal for the “malandrinho” style. Stir it in well, adding four cups of water for perfectly cooked rice. Don’t forget the salt.
- Allow it to cook for about twenty minutes until it’s ready, and serve immediately to enjoy the rich creamy broth.


Notes: For an extra zing, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of white wine. To intensify the taste, try using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water.
This recipe for Typical Portuguese Tomato Rice was originally created on BakeAfter.com.
Nutrition
Total: 400 calories; 15 g fat; 70 g carbohydrates; 10 g protein.Did you try this recipe?
Let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and share ;D