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Easy Garlic Turmeric Rice: Fluffy Golden Side Dish

A mound of bright yellow, fluffy turmeric rice served on a white plate, ready to eat.

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Make this flavorful Garlic Turmeric Rice on the stovetop in under 25 minutes. It is a simple, vibrant side dish that pairs well with many main courses.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 3/4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter with the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  4. Add the rinsed basmati rice, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the rice and coat it evenly with the spices and fat.
  5. Pour in the water or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
  8. Remove the lid and fluff the turmeric rice gently with a fork before serving.

Notes

  • For an anti-inflammatory boost, you can add a tiny pinch of black pepper, as it helps your body absorb the curcumin in the turmeric.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the water with light coconut milk.
  • Rinsing the basmati rice until the water runs clear helps create a fluffier final texture.

Nutrition