Turmeric yellow rice with onion and garlic

Turmeric yellow rice with onion and garlic is an aromatic dish that combines earthy turmeric with the richness of sautéed onions and garlic. This vibrant rice dish is easy to prepare and serves as a delightful side or base for various main courses.

16 Nov 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 cups water
1 cup white rice
1/4 cup onion
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
Turmeric yellow rice with onion and garlic

Turmeric yellow rice with onion and garlic is a flavorful and aromatic dish that adds a vibrant touch to your meal. This easy-to-make recipe combines the earthy flavor of turmeric with the richness of onions and garlic. Perfect as a side dish or a base for a main course, it's both visually appealing and delicious.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion into small pieces.
2. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté the Onion:
- Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion to the pot.
- Sauté the onion for 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Add Spices:
- Add the turmeric powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to the pot.
- Stir well to combine and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices are well mixed and aromatic.
5. Add the Rice:
- Add the white rice to the pot.
- Stir thoroughly to coat the rice with the onion and spice mixture.
6. Pour in the Water:
- Slowly add the 2 cups of water to the pot.
7. Bring to a Boil and Simmer:
- Increase the heat to high and bring the water to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
- Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the water.
8. Fluff and Serve:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
- Let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
9. Serve:
- Serve the turmeric yellow rice hot as a flavorful side dish or a base for your favorite main courses.

This turmeric yellow rice with onion and garlic recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a perfect accompaniment to any meal, offering both taste and visual appeal. Enjoy this dish as a satisfying complement to your favorite proteins or vegetables.

Turmeric yellow rice with onion and garlic FAQ:

What is the best way to know when the rice is done cooking?

The rice is cooked when it is tender and has absorbed all the water. You can check this by lifting the lid after the simmering time (15-20 minutes). If the rice is fluffy and no water remains, it’s ready.

Can I make this recipe with brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time, typically around 40-50 minutes. Make sure to increase the water to 2.5 cups when using brown rice.

How should I store leftovers of the turmeric yellow rice?

Allow the rice to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

What can I substitute for garlic powder in this recipe?

You can substitute garlic powder with fresh minced garlic. Use about one clove of fresh garlic for every teaspoon of garlic powder and sauté it with the onion until fragrant.

Can I use other types of rice in this recipe, like jasmine or basmati?

Yes, jasmine or basmati rice can be used as alternatives. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the rice type, so follow package instructions for water ratios and cooking times.

Tips:

- Rinse the white rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.

- For an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the onions in the olive oil for a few minutes until they become translucent before adding the rice and water.

- Consider using low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for added depth of flavor.

- If available, using fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder can provide a more robust garlic flavor.

- Let the cooked rice sit covered for about 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to become more tender.

- Feel free to garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 3.62g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 1.12g
Sugar 0.68g
Fat 7g

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