-If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you may use drained chopped tomatoes from a can.-This cooks up quickly, make sure to keep the heat at medium, and the pan covered as much as possible.- For cooking ahead-If you try to keep the rice warm too long after cooking, the grains will swell and the rice will become overcooked. Better to let it cool, then heat it up later when needed, or cook just before serving.