Description
Turmeric Rice is a vibrant and aromatic side dish made with fragrant basmati rice, earthy turmeric, and a touch of garlic and onion. It’s the perfect accompaniment to curries, grilled meats, or Middle Eastern and South Asian meals.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 3/4 cups water or broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear. Drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and turmeric. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the rinsed rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring to coat with the oil and spices.
- Add water or broth, salt, and bay leaf (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use broth instead of water for extra flavor.
- Add peas, toasted almonds, or raisins for a festive variation.
- Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, kofta, or curry dishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg