Ten-minute tomato fry recipe adds a tangy kick to any meal
A simple tomato fry using everyday spices comes together in just ten minutes and pairs well with flatbread, bhakri or rice and lentils.
Deciding what vegetable to cook every morning is a daily struggle in most kitchens, with one family member disliking a dish and another wanting something tangy. A quick tomato fry is an excellent option in such cases. It is easy to make and ready in just ten minutes.
No expensive ingredients need to be bought for this dish. It is made using tomatoes, cumin seeds, curry leaves and everyday spices that are usually already at home. Those new to cooking will also find this recipe easy to follow. Tomato fry also tastes good with flatbread, bhakri or rice and lentils.
Two medium-sized tomatoes are needed, and they should not be overripe but slightly firm. Along with this, a little curry leaves, half a teaspoon of cumin seeds, one teaspoon of chilli powder, a quarter teaspoon of turmeric, salt to taste and two teaspoons of oil are enough.
First, wash the tomatoes and cut them into round slices, neither too thin nor too thick, so they fry properly. Heat a pan on the stove, keeping the flame low, since a high flame can burn the spices.
Once the pan is hot, add a little oil. Add cumin seeds to the oil, and once they splutter, add curry leaves, turmeric, chilli powder and salt. Stir this mixture lightly with a spoon, taking care that the spices do not burn, or they will taste bitter.
Once the spice mix is ready, place the tomato slices in it one by one. The slices should not overlap and should be kept separate so they fry evenly on all sides. Let the tomatoes cook on a low flame. They start changing colour within two to three minutes. Once the edges turn slightly browned, flip them gently and let the other side cook the same way. Once both sides turn reddish and slightly crisp, the tomato fry is ready and the flame can be turned off.
Hot tomato fry tastes great with flatbread, and also goes well with bhakri. Some people eat it with rice and lentils too. It is also a good side dish on its own. Adding a little coriander or chaat masala on top enhances the flavour further. No extra expense is needed for this, since tomatoes and spices are usually always available at home. The spice level can be adjusted to taste, and less chilli powder should be used when cooking for young children.
