Are you looking for a flavorful and aromatic side dish to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble grain of rice, elevated by the vibrant warmth of turmeric! This golden spice has been used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, and its subtle bitterness and earthy sweetness pair perfectly with a wide range of ingredients. Whether you’re serving up a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate special occasion feast, these 20 flavor-packed turmeric rice recipes are sure to delight.
From classic combinations like Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice and Spiced Turmeric Basmati Rice, to more adventurous options like Lemon Turmeric Jasmine Rice and Garlic Turmeric Fried Rice, there’s something on this list for every taste and dietary preference. So why not spice up your mealtime routine with a little turmeric magic? Read on for our top 20 recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this beloved ingredient!
Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice
Elevate your rice game with this aromatic and flavorful Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Turmeric Basmati Rice
This aromatic rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, with the warmth of turmeric and spices adding depth and character. With its fluffy texture and vibrant yellow color, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric powder. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
4. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Turmeric Jasmine Rice
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meals with this vibrant Lemon Turmeric Jasmine Rice. Infused with the warm, spicy notes of turmeric and the brightness of lemon, this aromatic rice dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for a flavorful bowl.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, lemon juice, ginger, turmeric powder, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
4. Fluff with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Peas and Carrots
This flavorful and nutritious side dish is perfect for accompanying a variety of main courses, from chicken to fish to vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Add the rice, turmeric, and water to the saucepan.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in the frozen peas and grated carrots during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
8. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Turmeric Fried Rice
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful Garlic Turmeric Fried Rice recipe! This aromatic dish combines the warmth of turmeric, the pungency of garlic, and the comfort of fried rice for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Stir-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly toasted.
5. Add the turmeric and salt to taste; stir-fry for another minute.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Turmeric Rice Pilaf with Almonds
This aromatic pilaf combines the warmth of turmeric with the crunch of almonds, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With its subtle spices and nutty flavor, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the grated ginger and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in the sliced almonds.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro Lime Turmeric Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that combines the brightness of lime with the earthiness of turmeric, finished with a burst of fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Stir in the turmeric and lime juice.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
6. Fold in the chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Chickpeas and Spinach
This recipe combines the warmth of turmeric-infused rice with the creaminess of chickpeas and the freshness of spinach, making for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Lemon wedges, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the chickpea mixture.
5. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
6. Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Cashews and Raisins
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of turmeric rice with the crunch of cashews and sweetness of raisins, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the turmeric and salt, stirring to combine.
3. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the turmeric mixture.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cashews and raisins.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
This vibrant dish combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes, the nutty flavor of turmeric rice, and the tender crunch of kale. Perfect as a side or main course for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt to taste
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. Toss sweet potato with olive oil, onion, garlic, and turmeric on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add kale leaves and cook until wilted (about 5 minutes). Season with salt to taste.
5. Combine cooked rice, roasted sweet potato, and wilted kale in a bowl. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Pineapple and Coconut
This flavorful side dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the sweetness of pineapple and coconut, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine it with water, turmeric, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. In a separate pan, toast the unsweetened shredded coconut over medium heat, stirring frequently, until lightly browned.
4. Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then stir in the toasted coconut and pineapple mixture.
6. Drizzle with coconut oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Lentils and Curry Leaves
This flavorful dish combines the warm, earthy flavors of turmeric rice and red lentils with the aromatic essence of curry leaves. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh curry leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and lentils separately. Cook according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Combine cooked rice and lentils with the spice mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh curry leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Shrimp and Peppers
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the warmth of turmeric rice with succulent shrimp, crunchy peppers, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using turmeric and water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, 5-6 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Combine with skillet mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Chicken and Vegetables
This flavorful one-pot dish is a perfect blend of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, all served atop a bed of creamy turmeric-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 medium bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small red onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Tofu and Broccoli
Turmeric Rice with Tofu and Broccoli Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the earthy flavors of turmeric rice with the creaminess of pan-fried tofu and the crunch of steamed broccoli, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water and adding 1 teaspoon of turmeric and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Pan-fry the cubed tofu until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Steam the broccoli florets in a steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
4. To serve, place cooked rice on a plate, top with pan-fried tofu, and arrange steamed broccoli around the dish. Garnish with soy sauce, sesame oil, or chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Mushrooms and Thyme
A flavorful and aromatic side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. This simple recipe combines the warmth of turmeric with the earthiness of mushrooms and thyme, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown (5-6 minutes).
4. Add turmeric, salt, and thyme; stir well.
5. Add rice and water; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Saffron and Pistachios
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the warmth of turmeric, the subtle sweetness of saffron, and the crunch of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted pistachios, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. Stir in the turmeric, saffron (with its soaking liquid), and salt.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the parsley and pistachios.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Black Beans and Corn
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the warmth of turmeric with the creaminess of black beans and sweetness of corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add turmeric; stir 1 minute.
4. Add rice, water, black beans, and corn; bring to boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Eggplant and Tomatoes
Turmeric Rice with Eggplant and Tomatoes: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of turmeric with the sweetness of eggplant and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add eggplant pieces and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
4. Combine cooked rice, eggplant, and tomato mixture in a large serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Mango and Coconut Milk
This vibrant and flavorful side dish combines the warm, earthy tones of turmeric rice with the sweetness of ripe mango and the creaminess of coconut milk. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh mango
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water, turmeric, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the diced mango and coconut milk.
4. Dot the top of the rice mixture with butter and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavor of turmeric rice! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes perfect for any occasion. From classic dishes like Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice and Spiced Turmeric Basmati Rice to innovative combinations like Lemon Turmeric Jasmine Rice and Garlic Turmeric Fried Rice, there’s something for everyone. Explore the possibilities with vegetables, legumes, meats, and even fruits! Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the warm, earthy flavor of turmeric. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will add a pop of color and excitement to your meals.
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