Turmeric rice is a dish that brings a golden glow to your plate and soul. With its rich, aromatic flavor, it takes inspiration from across the world, from Indian kitchens to North African tagines. The addition of turmeric gives the rice a subtle warmth, making it both comforting and exotic—a perfect balance of homey and adventurous.
Whether you’re looking to spice up a dinner or create a new side dish, this recipe offers a quick way to elevate any meal. Pairing this turmeric rice with a Low-Carb Broccoli Cauliflower Salad With Bacon or Keto Broccoli Salad is an absolute game changer. The freshness and crispness of these salads complement the rice’s richness, balancing flavors in a harmonious way.
A drizzle of olive oil and a dash of lemon elevate the salads even further, making the combo perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to casual gatherings. It’s like combining the warmth of a cozy European bistro with the refreshing coolness of a Mediterranean garden.
When preparing this dish, remember that the key to perfect turmeric rice is not just the spice but the technique. Toasting the rice before simmering it enhances its nuttiness, giving each bite a depth of flavor. This simple trick, often used in restaurant kitchens, makes a world of difference. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations—add your favorite herbs or toss in a handful of raisins for a sweet contrast. The recipe is easy to personalize, encouraging you to explore new flavors every time you cook it.
What I Didn’t Expect About This Recipe?
- I never thought something so simple could taste so complex, but the turmeric adds such a depth of flavor.
- It was shockingly easy to make, especially when I learned that toasting the rice was the trick for extra flavor.
- The unexpected hit was how well it paired with the cucumber salad—I never thought they would complement each other so perfectly.
- The vibrant color always impresses guests, and they never expect it to taste as good as it looks.
- It’s become a go-to recipe not just for me, but for friends who are always asking for the “golden rice” whenever we gather.
Turmeric Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Strainer
- Measuring cups
- Fork
- Lid for the saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp turmeric
- pepper to taste
- 1 butter
- 1 bay leaf dried
- ¼ cup onion finely diced
- salt to taste
- 1 cup jasmine rice rinsed
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1½ cup chicken broth low sodium
Instructions
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear and drain it.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter.
- Once the butter is melted, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Stir in the rice and turmeric until well combined.
- Add chicken broth and a bay leaf, cover, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before removing the bay leaf, fluffing with a fork, and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or pepper during cooking.
- If you like your rice a bit drier, simmer a little longer to absorb more liquid
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 241kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 9g |
What To Pair With This Recipe?
- Grilled Chicken or Chicken Curry – The rich, savory flavors complement the vibrant rice.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry – For a lighter, plant-based option, stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini go well with turmeric rice.
- Lamb Kebabs – The earthy flavor of lamb pairs beautifully with the aromatic rice.
- Fish (like Salmon or Tilapia) – The delicate, flaky texture of fish works perfectly with the fragrant rice.
- Paneer Tikka – For a vegetarian pairing, this flavorful, spiced Indian dish complements the turmeric rice well.
