Creamy Turmeric Rice

Description

Creamy Turmeric Rice

Ingredients

1 cup basmati or jasmine rice, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 tsp ground turmeric
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Salt to taste
For Garnish:

Fresh arugula
Sesame seeds (black and white)
Directions

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add rinsed rice and stir to coat.

Add Spices: Stir in turmeric, garlic powder, ginger, and salt until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Simmer: Add vegetable broth and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Garnish: Fluff the rice with a fork. Top with fresh arugula and sprinkle with sesame seeds for a pop of flavor and texture.

Serve: Enjoy as a side dish or a light meal!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4
Calories: ~210 kcal per serving

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Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Creamy Turmeric Rice every time.

1. Rinse the Rice: Thoroughly rinse 1 cup of basmati or jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for fluffier rice.
2. Toast the Rice & Spices: In your saucepan, heat 1 tbsp of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir for 1 minute. Add 1 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp ginger, and salt. Stir constantly for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Liquids: Carefully pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and 1/2 cup coconut milk. Stir gently to combine.
4. Simmer: Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Immediately reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
5. Rest: After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb all liquid.
6. Finish: Uncover, fluff the rice with a fork, then garnish and serve.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile rice is more than just a side. Serve it as a bed for grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu. For a complete bowl, top with roasted vegetables like broccoli or sweet potato and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce. It also makes a fantastic filling for stuffed peppers or a warm base for grain salads.

How-to Summary

Rinse rice, toast it with turmeric and spices in oil, add broth and coconut milk, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes. Let it rest off the heat before fluffing and garnishing with arugula and sesame seeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh ginger and garlic? Absolutely! Substitute 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger and 2 cloves minced garlic for the powdered versions. Sauté them with the rice for 30 seconds before adding the liquid.

My rice is still crunchy. What happened? The heat was likely too high, causing liquid to evaporate before the rice cooked. Next time, ensure a very low simmer and use the full 2 cups of liquid. You can add a few extra tablespoons of broth and continue cooking if needed.

How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a microwave with a splash of water or in a covered saucepan over low heat to restore moisture.

Can I make this with brown rice? Yes, but adjust the liquid and time. Use 2.5 cups of broth, extend the simmer time to 40-45 minutes, and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Why is my rice mushy? This is usually from over-stirring during cooking or using too much liquid. Always measure accurately and only fluff the rice after it has fully rested.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not rinsing the rice: This leads to a gummy, sticky final texture.
• Lifting the lid while simmering: This releases essential steam and can result in undercooked rice.
• Using high heat to simmer: This will burn the bottom and leave the top uncooked. Low heat is crucial.
• Adding the garnish too early: Add fresh arugula and seeds just before serving so they retain their texture and color.

Conclusion

Creamy Turmeric Rice is a simple, vibrant dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something special. Its beautiful color, subtle spice, and creamy texture make it a reliable and healthy staple. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this recipe and enjoy it as a versatile foundation for countless meals.