Dinner

Garlic Turmeric Rice Recipe

ByRita Bennet October 28, 2025October 28, 2025

Introduction

Garlic Turmeric Rice is a fragrant and colorful side dish that brightens up any meal. Infused with warm turmeric and savory garlic, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables. This simple recipe transforms plain rice into a flavorful staple that’s easy to make at home.

A close-up of a large stainless steel pot filled with bright yellow rice mixed with small green herb pieces. The rice grains are long and fluffy, showing a light, slightly oily texture with tiny black specks. A silver spoon lifts a portion of the yellow rice above the pot, held by a woman's hand. The background is softly blurred with green leaves and warm light. The pot rests on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted butter (or coconut oil)
1/2 medium onion (finely diced)

4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp turmeric powder

2 cups (370g) basmati rice (or your choice of long-grain rice, rinsed and drained)
3 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)

1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
parsley (for garnish, optional)

marinated chicken kebabs (or any grilled veggies, seafood, or meat to serve)

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Stir in the turmeric powder to combine. Then add the rinsed and drained rice, stirring until the grains are evenly coated and lightly toasted.

Step 3: Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, add salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Step 5: Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit covered for about 5 minutes to steam.

Step 6: Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve alongside marinated chicken kebabs or your favorite grilled dishes.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil and use vegetable stock.
Add a pinch of cumin or coriander powder for an extra layer of spice.

Mix in toasted nuts or raisins for added texture and sweetness.
Use jasmine or long-grain rice if basmati is unavailable; adjust cooking time as needed.
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for extra freshness.

Storage

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to restore moisture. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A large silver pot filled with a single thick layer of bright yellow rice, with small green herb bits scattered evenly across the top. The rice looks fluffy and well-cooked, with a slight shine on the grains. The pot has two shiny handles and is placed on a white marbled surface, partially covered by a soft gray cloth. Some green leaves are visible in the top left corner of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and simmer until tender.

What if I don’t have turmeric powder?

Turmeric adds color and a mild earthy flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it or substitute with a small pinch of saffron or ground ginger for a different but pleasant taste.