Indian Tomato Bath
Indian Tomato Bath is a fragrant, one-pot rice dish from South India, particularly Karnataka, where rice is cooked in a tangy tomato-based gravy with aromatic spices. It typically features basmati rice, ripe tomatoes, onions, green chilies, and a blend of spices like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and turmeric. This comforting meal is often served as a quick lunch or dinner, sometimes accompanied by raita or a simple side of yogurt.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is primarily carbohydrate-rich due to the rice, with moderate fat from oil or ghee used in tempering and minimal protein unless lentils or nuts are added. It provides essential nutrients like vitamin C from tomatoes, iron from spices, and antioxidants, with a rough calorie range of 300-400 per serving depending on portion size and added fats.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 4.5 g |
| Carbs | 38 g |
| Fat | 5.5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45 mcg |
| Iron | 2.0 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg |
| Phosphorus | 80 mg |
| Folate | 35 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Tomato Bath reflects the South Indian tradition of 'bath' or 'annam' dishes that transform plain rice into flavorful, standalone meals, often using seasonal vegetables and minimal ingredients. Nutritionally, the tomatoes add a tangy, vitamin-rich element that not only enhances flavor but also aids in iron absorption from the spices, making it a balanced yet simple comfort food.
