Discover the vibrant flavor and health benefits of turmeric rice dishes! With its warm, earthy tone and impressive list of health perks, it’s no wonder why turmeric has become a staple in many cuisines. But what really makes this spice shine is when it’s paired with fluffy, fragrant rice. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful turmeric rice recipes that are perfect for every occasion – from cozy weeknight meals to impressive dinner parties.
From classic pairings like coconut and peas to more adventurous combinations like saffron and cardamom, these recipes showcase the versatility of turmeric and its ability to elevate even the simplest dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these 20 mouthwatering recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice
This vibrant dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the creamy richness of coconut, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice bowl.
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
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the shredded coconut and cook for an additional minute.
5. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the coconut oil and cilantro (if using).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Turmeric Rice with Peas and Carrots
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious dish, infused with the warm aroma of turmeric.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
5. Stir in peas and grated carrot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Crispy Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic Turmeric Rice dish, infused with the savory goodness of crispy garlic and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the turmeric and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced garlic to the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
4. Add the cooked rice to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the turmeric mixture.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and well coated with the flavors.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lemon Turmeric Rice with Toasted Almonds
Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful rice dish, infused with the warmth of turmeric and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped (see toasting instructions below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the grated ginger, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice and water to the saucepan. 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.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lemon juice.
6. Toast the almonds by heating a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice Pilaf with Raisins and Cashews
This fragrant pilaf is a flavorful side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a comforting bowl on its own. The addition of turmeric gives it a warm, sunny hue and a subtle earthy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice, turmeric, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Add water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff pilaf with a fork. Stir in raisins and cashews.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
One-Pot Turmeric Rice and Chickpeas
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish, where turmeric-spiced rice and chickpeas come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water or broth, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork, then add the chickpeas and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Saffron and Cardamom
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish infused with the warmth of turmeric, the subtle sweetness of saffron, and the aromatic spice of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the turmeric, saffron (with its soaking liquid), and cardamom. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Turmeric Fried Rice
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the simplicity of fried rice with the warmth of turmeric, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the turmeric, soy sauce, and cooked rice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Spinach and Feta
Elevate your rice game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, infused with the warmth of turmeric, the earthiness of spinach, and the tanginess of feta. Perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using turmeric and water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add spinach; cook until wilted (1-2 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Fluff cooked rice and stir in feta cheese.
5. Combine cooked rice mixture with spinach mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the warmth of turmeric and the comfort of rice, creating a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, and turmeric.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Black Beans and Lime
This flavorful and nutritious dish combines the warm, earthy taste of turmeric with the richness of black beans and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Add the turmeric powder to the cooked rice and stir well to combine.
3. In a separate pan, heat the black beans over medium heat until warmed through.
4. Squeeze the lime juice over the black beans and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the turmeric rice alongside the black beans, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice and Lentil Bowl with Yogurt Drizzle
This vibrant bowl combines the comforting warmth of turmeric rice with the creamy texture of yogurt, all wrapped up in a flavorful package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh turmeric
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup cooked lentils (such as green or brown)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer, then cook according to package instructions with turmeric added to the water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked lentils and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked rice between four bowls, then top with the lentil mixture.
5. Drizzle the plain yogurt over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This flavorful side dish combines the warmth of turmeric rice with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the turmeric and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the turmeric mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. While the rice cooks, toss the sweet potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve the turmeric rice alongside the roasted sweet potatoes. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Grilled Chicken and Herbs
This flavorful dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the smokiness of grilled chicken, all wrapped up with fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and turmeric. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. Meanwhile, season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together parsley and a pinch of salt.
5. To serve, place grilled chicken on top of turmeric rice and sprinkle with herb mixture.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Shrimp and Coconut Milk
This vibrant dish combines the warmth of turmeric with succulent shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and fluffy rice for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (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 garlic and shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the turmeric and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine the cooked rice with the shrimp mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Spiced Ground Beef
A flavorful and aromatic fusion of Indian-inspired spices, this dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the richness of ground beef, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (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 minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric powder. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the spiced ground beef over the cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Mango and Mint
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the sweetness of mango and the freshness of mint, creating a perfect blend of Indian and tropical flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Add the turmeric and salt to the cooked rice and mix well.
3. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced mango and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. Stir in the chopped mint leaves and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine the cooked mango-mint mixture with the turmeric rice and mix well.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Roasted Eggplant and Tahini
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the warmth of turmeric rice with the sweetness of roasted eggplant and the creaminess of tahini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the turmeric powder.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss eggplant cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a pan, heat garlic over medium heat for 1 minute. Add roasted eggplant and stir to combine.
4. Serve the turmeric rice topped with the eggplant mixture and a dollop of tahini paste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Crispy Tofu and Peanuts
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the crunch of peanuts and crispy tofu, making it a perfect side or main course for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Optional: scallions and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using turmeric and salt.
2. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add tofu and cook until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
3. In the same pan, add chopped peanuts and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
4. Serve turmeric rice with crispy tofu and peanuts. Garnish with scallions and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Pineapple and Cashew
A flavorful and nutritious rice dish infused with the warmth of turmeric, sweetness of pineapple, and crunch of cashews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup chopped roasted cashews
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Heat the oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pineapple and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the pineapple mixture, cashews, and cilantro leaves (if using).
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of turmeric rice with these 20 mouthwatering recipes for every occasion! From comforting bowls to flavorful side dishes, each recipe showcases the warm, golden hue and earthy taste of this superfood. Enjoy classic combinations like Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice or Spiced Turmeric Rice with Peas and Carrots, or try innovative twists like Lemon Turmeric Rice with Toasted Almonds or Vegetable Turmeric Fried Rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or special celebration, these recipes will add a pop of color and deliciousness to any meal.
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