Are you tired of serving the same old white or brown rice at every meal? Look no further! Turmeric rice is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional rice dishes. With its bright yellow color and earthy, slightly spicy flavor, turmeric rice is the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to accompany your favorite protein or a filling base for a vegetarian main course, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different turmeric rice recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From comforting bowls of one-pot goodness to colorful salads and vibrant stir-fries, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative with your spices, and take your meals to the next level with these delicious and easy-to-make turmeric rice recipes.
Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this aromatic and flavorful Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice recipe, perfect for accompanying your favorite curries or as a side dish. This simple yet impressive recipe combines the warmth of turmeric with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
2. Heat the coconut oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the turmeric, rice, and water to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and stir in coconut milk. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Turmeric Rice with Peas and Carrots
This flavorful rice dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the sweetness of peas and carrots, making it a perfect side for your favorite main courses. With its aromatic spices and vibrant color, this recipe is sure to impress.
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 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Stir in frozen peas and carrots during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Turmeric Rice with Fresh Herbs
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the warmth of turmeric, the zing of lemon, and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, turmeric, lemon juice, and olive oil. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped parsley and cilantro. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turmeric Rice Pilaf with Almonds and Raisins
This aromatic rice pilaf is infused with the warm flavors of turmeric, toasted almonds, and sweet raisins. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup raisins
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the turmeric and cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the onion mixture, toasted almonds, and raisins. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Turmeric Rice and Chickpeas
This vibrant and flavorful one-pot dish is a perfect combination of fluffy rice, tender chickpeas, and the warmth of turmeric. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe is a weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the rice and water to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turmeric Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the warmth of turmeric with a variety of colorful vegetables for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Cashews and Curry Leaves
This flavorful rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to many Indian-inspired meals. The combination of turmeric, cashews, and curry leaves adds a delightful aroma and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh curry leaves
– 1/4 cup cashews, toasted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the ghee or oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the curry leaves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the turmeric, salt, toasted cashews, and curry leaf mixture.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Turmeric Rice with Crispy Onions
Elevate your meals with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the warmth of garlic and turmeric, topped with crunchy caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
2. While the rice cooks, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add turmeric and salt; stir for 30 seconds.
4. Add onions to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes or until caramelized and crispy.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in garlic-turmeric mixture. Serve hot, topped with crispy onions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice and Lentil Stew
This comforting and flavorful stew combines aromatic turmeric with the warmth of red lentils and the simplicity of cooked rice, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked brown or white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup split red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add the lentils, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir well.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve the stew over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Spinach and Feta
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the warmth of turmeric with the creaminess of feta and the freshness of spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and turmeric. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the rice to a serving dish and top with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your meal with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the warmth of turmeric-infused rice. Perfect for a healthy dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and mix with the skillet mixture.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turmeric Rice Salad with Mango and Mint
This vibrant salad combines fluffy turmeric-infused rice with sweet mango, refreshing mint, and a hint of citrus, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped mint leaves
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice and frozen peas. Stir in turmeric, salt, and lime juice.
2. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
3. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice mixture, mango, cilantro, and mint leaves. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 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 accompanying your favorite main courses. With its vibrant yellow color and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Serve warm turmeric rice alongside roasted sweet potatoes. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Turmeric Rice and Black Bean Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines fluffy turmeric-infused rice with creamy black beans, crunchy veggies, and a squeeze of lime juice. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using turmeric and water.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve cooked rice, black bean mixture, and garnish with cilantro leaves (if using). Squeeze a lime wedge over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Grilled Chicken and Yogurt Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of turmeric rice with the charred goodness of grilled chicken, all tied together with a refreshing yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Turmeric Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
For the Grilled Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions, adding turmeric and salt to taste.
2. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Mix yogurt with cilantro, lemon juice, and salt to taste.
4. Serve grilled chicken on top of turmeric rice, drizzling with yogurt sauce.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Shrimp and Coconut Milk
This flavorful dish combines the warmth of turmeric with the sweetness of coconut milk, perfectly paired with succulent shrimp. A perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and cooked through (3-4 minutes per side).
4. Stir in turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coconut milk, rice, salt, and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Turmeric Rice and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This flavorful and nutritious dish combines the warmth of turmeric with a medley of colorful vegetables, all wrapped up in a simple and easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Rice with Pineapple and Cashews
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the warmth of turmeric with the sweetness of pineapple and crunch of cashews. This simple recipe is perfect for pairing with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in pineapple chunks, turmeric, and salt. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the pineapple mixture.
6. Garnish with chopped cashews before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 flavorful turmeric rice recipes! From comforting pilafs to vibrant salads, there’s something for every occasion. Try Golden Turmeric Coconut Rice as a side dish or use it as a base for One-Pot Turmeric Rice and Chickpeas. Add some crunch with Garlic Turmeric Rice with Crispy Onions or go savory with Spiced Turmeric Rice with Peas and Carrots. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece, these recipes are sure to please.
