“Turmeric Yellow Rice”

Got a side dish in mind for tonight’s dinner? How much do you enjoy rice? In my family, rice has always been a popular side and for as long as I can remember even growing up. My Dad would request Mom to cook rice depending on what she was cooking. So, since I’m using and providing recipes containing turmeric I know you’ll love this Turmeric Yellow Rice. Rice is a staple in many households and cultures so read on to find out what makes this rice so special.

Turmeric Yellow Rice

This recipe can be made vegan by using oil at the end of cooking and not butter. I have used both and either works. Like any rice it can be served with roasted meats like chicken, pork, beef, or seafood. I recommend seasoning meat with like spices for the perfect pairing. However, yellow rice is served with vegan or vegetarian meals such as Tawa Pulao. Indian cooking is where you’ll see turmeric used most frequently.

Turmeric Yellow Rice

Mediterranean cooking is where you’ll find yellow rice infused with saffron. The threads are soaked in water and then added to the rice. Hence, the yellow color is produced. In Latin cooking, annatto seeds or paste are used in rice for flavor and color. This flavorful rice is seasoned with cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, turmeric, salt, butter or oil, and cilantro. Cilantro can be left out if you are one who thinks it tastes like soap. No worries, my sister thinks so, too. Warm nutty spice perfumes the yellow rice making it irresistible and crave worthy.

Turmeric Yellow Rice

Looking for a new side, give Turmeric Yellow Rice a try. Prepare your favorite meat, poultry, seafood or vegetable entrée and serve up one delicious plate. Remember a little turmeric goes a long way. Enjoy!

Turmeric Yellow Rice

Turmeric Yellow Rice

2 cups jasmine rice

2 cups water

1 bay leaf

1 – 2-inch piece of cinnamon stick

3 whole cloves

¾ t. ground turmeric

1 t. kosher salt

2 T. butter or olive oil

Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

In a 2-quart saucepan, combine rice, water, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, turmeric, and salt. Bring to boil, cover then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes. Do not lift lid.

Remove saucepan from heat and let sit, still covered for 10 minutes.

Uncover and discard bay leaf, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir in butter or oil and serve garnished with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Makes about 6 cups of cooked rice.