Name: Turmeric Rice with Fresh Cilantro Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 cups basmati rice; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, crushed or grated; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated; 2 1/4 cups vegetable broth (or water); 1 1/2 cups finely chopped, tightly packed fresh cilantro (or dill, parsley, or a combination)

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Introduction

Turmeric rice is a vibrant and fragrant side dish that adds a warm, golden color to any meal. Infused with fresh aromatics and cilantro, this basmati rice recipe is both simple and flavorful, perfect for complementing a variety of dishes.

The image shows a large white bowl full of bright yellow rice mixed with small green herb pieces and finely chopped onions, giving it a fresh, textured look. A silver spoon with a white handle is partially buried in the rice, resting towards the center right of the bowl. Behind the bowl, there is a clear glass jar with a golden liquid and a smaller bowl filled with fresh green herbs, all set on a white marbled texture surface with a red cloth partially visible below the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups basmati rice
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed or grated
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
1 teaspoon turmeric
2 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1 1/2 cups finely chopped, tightly packed fresh cilantro (or dill, parsley, or a combination, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Repeat rinsing and draining until the water runs clear, ensuring fluffy and separate grains when cooked.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a medium non-stick saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring, until softened and translucent.
Step 3: Add the garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Sprinkle in the turmeric, then add the rinsed rice to the pan. Stir well to coat the rice evenly with the aromatics and turmeric.
Step 5: Pour in the vegetable broth or water, add the Kosher salt, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Once boiling, stir in the chopped cilantro evenly throughout the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 7: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the rice to steam. Fluff gently with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice lightly in the olive oil before adding the liquid.
Swap fresh cilantro with dill or parsley for a different herbal note.
Add a few whole cloves or a cinnamon stick during cooking for a subtle spice aroma, removing them before serving.

Storage

Store leftover turmeric rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to restore moisture and fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with yellow cooked rice mixed with herbs and spices, showing visible pieces of onion and green leaves, sitting on a white marbled background. Behind it, a shiny silver pot reflecting the yellow rice with a wooden spoon inside is placed on a wooden board. To the left, there is a glass bottle with a golden liquid, and in the foreground, a red and yellow patterned cloth is partly visible. The colors are bright and warm, creating a fresh and inviting look for the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular white rice instead of basmati?

Yes, you can substitute regular white rice, but cooking times and liquid quantities may vary slightly. Adjust accordingly and monitor the rice as it cooks.

Is turmeric safe to consume daily?

Turmeric is generally safe when used in typical cooking amounts. If consuming larger amounts as a supplement, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have health conditions or take medications.