What Is Turmeric Rice?
Turmeric rice is a dish made with rice that is flavored with turmeric, a yellow spice commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisine. Turmeric gives the rice a vibrant yellow color and a slightly nutty flavor. It can be served as a side dish or as a base for other dishes.
To make Turmeric Rice, you will need rice, turmeric powder, water or broth, and spices like cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. The rice is typically rinsed, soaked, and cooked with the spices and water/broth until it is tender and fluffy.
What Are The Health Benefits of Turmeric Rice?
Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory spice. It reduces inflammation, boosts brain function, and improves heart health. Additionally, rice is a good source of carbohydrates and provides essential nutrients like fiber, B vitamins, and minerals.
What Type of Rice Is Best for Turmeric Rice?
The best type of rice for turmeric rice is long-grain rice, such as basmati rice. Basmati rice has a light, delicate flavor and a slightly nutty aroma that pair well with the flavors of turmeric and other spices. It also remains separate and fluffy when cooked.
You can make it with brown rice. Brown rice will take longer to cook than white rice. Adjust the cooking time or the amount of liquid used. Additionally, brown rice has a nutty flavor and chewier texture than white rice.
However, you can also use other types of long-grain rice or even medium-grain rice instead of basmati rice.
For more, check out our ‘Types of Rice’ article.
What To Serve With Turmeric Rice?
Turmeric rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It goes especially well with spicy or flavorful dishes, as the mild and nutty flavor of the rice complements the bolder flavors of the main course. Turmeric rice is a classic side dish for Indian curries like chicken tikka masala or vegetable korma. It also pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, lamb, beef, or fish.
You can also serve turmeric rice with roasted or sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, eggplant or bell pepper. Turmeric rice pilaf goes well with grilled tofu or tempeh. It also pairs with a fresh and crunchy salad for a vegetarian or vegan option.
Here are our delicious recipes that you can serve with Turmeric Rice:
How To Store Turmeric Rice?
To store turmeric rice, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for longer-term storage.
When reheating leftover turmeric rice, you can add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Reheated rice should be consumed within 24 hours to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. Additionally, when reheating frozen turmeric rice, allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator.
