Name: Turmeric Rice – A Golden Side Dish Full of Flavor
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: global
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter or ghee; 1 small onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained; 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock; ½ tsp salt (or to taste); Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

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Looking to add something vibrant and comforting to your dinner table? This Turmeric Rice is a warm, fragrant side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its golden hue, subtle earthy flavor, and buttery texture, it pairs effortlessly with grilled meats, curries, roasted vegetables, or even eggs for a simple yet satisfying meal.

Made with just a few pantry staples—onion, garlic, turmeric, and broth—this dish delivers comfort food vibes without a lot of effort. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, turmeric rice adds a pop of color and nutrition to any plate.

Turmeric Rice – A Golden Side Dish Full of Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with minimal ingredients – It all comes together in one pot.
Versatile – Pairs with countless dishes from Mediterranean to Indian cuisines.
Naturally gluten-free – And vegetarian or vegan if you use veggie stock and plant-based butter.
Flavorful without being overpowering – Great for kids or spice-sensitive eaters.
Packed with anti-inflammatory turmeric – Golden color meets health benefits.

Ingredients

Tip: you can find full ingredients and measurements list in the recipe card below.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 cup basmati rice (or long-grain rice), rinsed and drained
2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Melt the butter or ghee in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

2. Add Turmeric and Rice

Sprinkle in the turmeric powder and stir well to coat the onions and garlic. Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat with the turmeric mixture. Let it toast lightly for 1 minute to develop flavor.

3. Simmer the Rice

Pour in the stock and add salt. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed.

4. Let It Rest and Fluff

Remove from heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice sit for 5 minutes to steam. Then fluff it gently with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve warm.

Variations

Add vegetables – Stir in frozen peas or finely diced carrots when adding the rice.
Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes with the turmeric.
Use coconut oil – For a slightly tropical flavor, replace the butter with coconut oil.
Add protein – Serve with a fried egg, chickpeas, or grilled chicken for a full meal.
Switch up the herbs – Mint or dill also work beautifully as garnishes.

Storage and Reheating

To store:
Let the rice cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To freeze:
Transfer cooled rice to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat:

Microwave: Sprinkle rice with a few drops of water and microwave covered for 1–2 minutes.
Stovetop: Add a splash of water and reheat in a skillet over medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use jasmine rice instead of basmati?

Yes! Jasmine rice works well. It has a slightly different fragrance and texture but will still absorb the flavors beautifully.

Do I have to rinse the rice?

Yes, rinsing removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy and non-sticky.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

You can. Sauté the aromatics in a pan first, then transfer everything to your rice cooker and cook as usual.

What if I don’t have turmeric?

The dish won’t have its signature color or flavor, but you can use a pinch of curry powder as a backup.

Is this spicy?

Not at all. It’s flavorful and aromatic but mild. You can always add heat with chili flakes if desired.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger pot and double all ingredients. Cooking time may increase slightly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. It reheats well and is great for meal prep. Store in portioned containers for easy lunches or dinners.

What’s the difference between ghee and butter here?

Ghee has a nuttier, more intense flavor and is lactose-free. Both work well in this recipe.

Can I use water instead of broth?

You can, but broth adds more depth. If using water, increase the salt slightly.

Does turmeric stain?

It can. Be careful with white counters, cloths, or plastic utensils. Clean up promptly to avoid stains.

Conclusion

This easy turmeric rice recipe is your new go-to side dish when you want something that feels comforting and a little elevated. With its subtle spice, buttery aroma, and vibrant golden color, it makes even the simplest meal feel a little more special.

Pair it with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or enjoy it all on its own—it’s a small pot of gold, ready in under 30 minutes.