Description
This Garlic Turmeric Rice is a vibrant, flavorful side dish infused with aromatic garlic and earthy turmeric. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop, it combines fragrant spices with fluffy long-grain rice, making it a wholesome and colorful companion to a variety of meals from Middle Eastern to Indian-inspired cuisines.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice & Liquid
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Spices & Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan, warm the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant without browning to ensure a sweet and mellow garlic flavor.
- Add Spices: Stir in ground turmeric and optional cumin. Cook these spices for 30 seconds to bloom their flavors, releasing their aromatic oils into the oil and garlic mixture.
- Incorporate Rice: Add the rice to the pan, stirring thoroughly to coat each grain with the spiced garlic oil mix. This step enhances flavor absorption and ensures an even golden color.
- Add Liquid and Salt: Pour in water or low-sodium chicken broth and sprinkle in the salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes, until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest the Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to steam and set, which helps in achieving a fluffy texture.
- Fluff and Garnish: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, separating the grains. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro if desired, then serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a nuttier taste and chewier texture, substitute with brown rice but increase the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- This savory rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and various curry dishes.
- Adjust salt levels to taste, especially if using broth instead of water to avoid over-salting.
- Use fresh turmeric instead of ground for a more vibrant color and brighter flavor if available.
- To keep the dish vegan, opt for olive oil instead of butter.
