Golden Basmati Turmeric Rice
Experience the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this Golden Basmati Turmeric Rice. This delightful dish combines aromatic basmati rice with the warm, earthy notes of turmeric, complemented by savory onions and garlic. Perfect as a side or a base for your favorite protein, this recipe not only adds a splash of color to your plate but also a boost of anti-inflammatory properties. Share it with family and friends and watch them marvel at this golden treasure!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
2 tablespoons (divided)
onion
1/2 (chopped)
garlic
1 clove (minced)
basmati rice
1 cup (uncooked)
turmeric
1 tablespoon (ground)
chicken broth
1 1/2 cups (preferably low-sodium)
bay leaf
1 (whole)
thyme
1 drop (dried)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3
Stir in the basmati rice and turmeric, making sure to coat the rice evenly with the turmeric and butter mixture.
4
Pour in the chicken broth, add the bay leaf and a drop of thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 17 minutes until the rice is tender.
6
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat, stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, and discard the bay leaf.
7
Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to enhance its texture and aroma.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Golden Basmati Turmeric Rice?
It is a vibrant and aromatic side dish that combines basmati rice with earthy turmeric, savory onions, and garlic for a flavorful and healthy meal component.
What are the health benefits of this turmeric rice?
The primary benefit comes from turmeric, which is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties and warm, earthy flavor.
How long should I simmer the rice?
The rice should be simmered on low heat for approximately 17 minutes until it is tender.
Can I use a different type of rice?
While this recipe specifically calls for basmati rice for its aroma, you can use other long-grain white rice, though cooking times may vary slightly.
How much turmeric is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric to achieve its signature golden color and flavor.
Do I need to sauté the onions and garlic?
Yes, you should sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter for about 3-4 minutes until they are translucent and fragrant.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
As written, it uses chicken broth. To make it strictly vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Why is the rice coated in turmeric and butter before adding liquid?
Stirring the rice with the turmeric and butter mixture ensures every grain is evenly coated with flavor and color, preventing clumping.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The recipe uses a bay leaf and a drop of dried thyme to add depth to the rice's flavor profile.
Do I keep the bay leaf in the rice after cooking?
No, you should discard the bay leaf once the cooking process is complete and before serving.
Why is butter added at the end of the recipe?
Stirring in an extra tablespoon of butter after cooking adds a rich, velvety texture and enhances the final aroma.
How do I ensure the rice is fluffy?
Fluff the rice gently with a fork after it has finished cooking to separate the grains and improve the texture.
Can I use low-sodium broth?
Yes, the recipe recommends using low-sodium chicken broth so you can better control the salt content to your taste.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is not spicy. It has a warm, earthy, and savory flavor rather than heat.
How many ingredients are needed?
There are 10 ingredients in total: butter, onion, garlic, basmati rice, turmeric, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, with a simmering time of only 17 minutes and a few minutes of sautéing, it is considered an easy and quick recipe.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 1 clove of minced garlic for the best flavor.
What can I serve with turmeric rice?
It serves as a perfect side dish for grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, or any protein of your choice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients listed (rice, butter, vegetables, broth, and spices) are naturally gluten-free, provided the broth is certified gluten-free.
How do I store leftover turmeric rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Can I freeze this rice?
Yes, turmeric rice freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
How much rice does this recipe use?
The recipe uses 1 cup of uncooked basmati rice.
Can I use water instead of broth?
You can use water, but using chicken or vegetable broth adds significantly more flavor to the final dish.
What kind of pot should I use?
A medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid is recommended for even cooking and steaming.
Does the turmeric stain?
Yes, turmeric is a strong natural dye. Be careful with plastic containers or light-colored wooden spoons as they may stain.
Should I wash the rice first?
Rinsing basmati rice until the water runs clear is often recommended to remove excess starch and ensure fluffier grains, though it is optional.
What type of turmeric should I use?
Ground turmeric is preferred for this recipe to ensure it mixes smoothly and coats the rice evenly.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The dish has an earthy, savory, and slightly buttery taste with aromatic notes from the bay leaf and garlic.
Is this a good recipe for beginners?
Absolutely, it is a straightforward recipe with simple steps that yields a restaurant-quality side dish.