Turmeric Rice
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of Turmeric Rice wafting through the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made it; my whole family gathered around, curious about the bright yellow hue and fragrant spices. It felt like a celebration in a bowl, turning an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. This dish is not just a side; it’s a vibrant centerpiece that complements any meal. Whether you’re serving it with grilled vegetables or a rich curry, Turmeric Rice adds a splash of color and flavor that transforms the dining experience.
The beauty of Turmeric Rice lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and healthful. Turmeric, renowned for its antioxidant properties, lends its warm, golden color and health benefits to the rice. The unique flavor profile of this dish can elevate your cooking game, impressing guests or bringing a smile to your family’s faces during dinner. It’s a fantastic way to introduce turmeric into your diet if you haven’t already.
I often think of Turmeric Rice as a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. You can easily adapt it with various spices or add-ins, depending on what you have on hand or the season. This dish always brings back fond memories of family dinners, laughter, and togetherness. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite way of preparing Turmeric Rice with you, so you can start creating your own beautiful moments at the dinner table.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
5 mins
20 mins
Easy
240 kcal
5 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
8 g
Saucepan, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan, Cutting Board
The Beauty of This Turmeric Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore Turmeric Rice, and I can’t wait to share them with you!
1. Health Benefits
This dish is not just delicious; it’s packed with health benefits. Turmeric, the star ingredient, boasts powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. Plus, it’s a natural way to boost your immune system!
2. Vibrant Color and Flavor
The bright yellow color of Turmeric Rice is visually stunning. It instantly brightens up any plate and adds a burst of flavor that can make even the simplest meals feel special. Your dinner guests will be impressed when they see this beautiful dish on the table.
3. Versatility
Turmeric Rice pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled vegetables, curries, or even as a base for a protein dish, it complements a wide range of flavors. You can also customize it with your favorite spices or herbs.
4. Quick and Easy to Make
Don’t be intimidated by the vibrant colors and complex flavors. This recipe is straightforward and quick to make. In under thirty minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, aromatic side dish that will make your meal stand out.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep
If you love to meal prep, Turmeric Rice is an outstanding option. It keeps well in the refrigerator, making it a fantastic choice for lunchboxes or quick weeknight dinners. Just reheat and enjoy!
Shopping List for Turmeric Rice

When it comes to the ingredients for Turmeric Rice, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a critical role in enhancing the dish’s flavor and health benefits. From the aromatic butter to the earthy turmeric, each component works in harmony to create a delightful experience. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the rice.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a fruity flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- 1/4 cup onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the rice with incredible aroma and flavor.
- 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed: This fragrant rice variety is perfect for absorbing flavors.
- 1 and 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth: Provides moisture and enhances the rice’s savory taste.
- 1 bay leaf, dried: Adds a subtle herbal note.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Pepper to taste: Adds a little spice and balances the flavors.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons turmeric: The star ingredient that gives the dish its beautiful color and beneficial properties.
The Method for Turmeric Rice

Cooking Turmeric Rice is a delightful and satisfying experience. With just a few simple steps, you’ll find yourself enjoying this vibrant dish in no time. Let’s dive into the detailed process to ensure you get it just right.
- Start by rinsing the rice under cool water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps keep the rice fluffy. Drain it thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, creating a beautiful, aromatic base for your dish.
- Once the butter has melted, add the onion and garlic. Sauté them together until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about three to five minutes. This step sets the flavor foundation for the rice.
- Next, add the rinsed rice and turmeric to the saucepan. Stir well, ensuring that each grain is coated with the buttery mixture, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors fully.
- Pour in the chicken broth and drop in the bay leaf. This will infuse the rice with a savory depth. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. This creates a nice steaming effect that cooks the rice perfectly.
- Allow the rice to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Check the rice occasionally to ensure it’s not sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the rice has absorbed all the liquid, remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for an additional five minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld.
- After resting, remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork. The grains should be separate and fluffy, and the vibrant color will shine.
- Serve your Turmeric Rice warm as a delightful side to your favorite dishes. Enjoy the beauty and flavor of this amazing dish!
Things Worth Knowing
- Rinsing the rice: This crucial step helps to remove excess starch, which can cause the rice to become gummy. Rinsing leads to fluffier grains.
- Cooking with broth: Using low sodium chicken broth instead of water adds layers of flavor that significantly enhance the taste of the rice.
- Resting period: Allowing the rice to sit covered after cooking helps it to steam and finish cooking, ensuring it’s perfectly fluffy.
- Adjusting seasoning: Taste the rice before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preferences, ensuring a well-seasoned dish.
Substitutions and Tips

While Turmeric Rice is fantastic as is, there are always ways to add your personal touch. Here are some tips to consider:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze Turmeric Rice for up to two months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: This rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or lentil curry, creating a colorful and nutritious plate.
- Adding vegetables: Feel free to throw in some peas, carrots, or bell peppers while cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with other herbs or spices like cumin or parsley to customize your Turmeric Rice to your taste.
- Meal prep: Make a big batch of this rice at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.
What Goes Well With This Turmeric Rice
Serving Turmeric Rice can be as creative as you like. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Curry dishes: Pair it with your favorite curry, whether it’s chickpea, vegetable, or chicken. The flavors mesh beautifully!
- Grilled meats: It complements grilled chicken, fish, or lamb perfectly, enhancing their flavors with its rich taste.
- Vegetable stir-fry: Serve it alongside a colorful vegetable stir-fry for a healthy vegetarian meal.
- Salads: You can use Turmeric Rice as a base for a hearty salad, topped with fresh vegetables and your choice of protein.
- Seasonal dishes: This rice is perfect for seasonal occasions, making it a great choice for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners.
- Leftover ideas: Use leftover rice for fried rice or as a stuffing for bell peppers or tomatoes.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Turmeric Rice is a fantastic dish that combines flavor, health benefits, and versatility all in one. It’s an easy recipe that can elevate your meals and impress your guests. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the delightful experience it brings to your dining table.

Turmeric Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse rice until water runs clear, drain.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
- When butter is melted, add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add rice and turmeric. Stir until combined. Add chicken broth and bay leaf, cover pan. Increase heat and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and allow to sit for 5 minutes. Remove bay leaf, fluff with a fork and serve.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze Turmeric Rice for up to two months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: This rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or lentil curry, creating a colorful and nutritious plate.
- Adding vegetables: Feel free to throw in some peas, carrots, or bell peppers while cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with other herbs or spices like cumin or parsley to customize your Turmeric Rice to your taste.
- Meal prep: Make a big batch of this rice at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.


