Garlic Turmeric Rice

This garlic turmeric rice uses minimal ingredients with minimal prep needed. The flavors blend together to make an easy and delicious side to any meal. Simply by adding protein and veggie favorites, the rice becomes a meal on its own that is easily saved for meal prep. The added bonus of the healing properties of turmeric make this rice one that you will want to use over and over again.

What is turmeric?

Turmeric is a plant known for its deep yellow color commonly used as a medicine in many cultures around the world. Closely related to ginger, it contains the healing properties of curcumin, thought to aid in digestive issues, skin disorders, depression, allergies, various cancers and a host of other ailments. While the studies of turmeric are ongoing, there is no denying this garlic turmeric rice is a great way to start adding this powerful yet light spice into your cooking. 

Can you make this in an instant pot?

Absolutely! I make the garlic turmeric rice in my Instant Pot 6qt Duo Pressure Cooker. Add the uncooked rice and water to the instant pot, seal the top and turn the release valve to seal. Set on manual or pressure cook for 4 minutes. IMPORTANT: turn off the Keep Warm bottom to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Once the rice has cooked for 4 minutes, let it sit for 8 minutes with the lid still on. At 8 minutes, quick release and open the lid. At this point, add all other ingredients into the instant pot and stir well to combine. 

This recipe can also be made in a rice cooker the same way. Cook the rice normally and add the remaining ingredients once rice has finished cooking. 

What kind of protein or veggies would you add?

The garlic turmeric rice pairs well with a variety of vegetables. I stir fry asparagus and mushrooms and add them once the rice is cooked. For protein, I add Air Fryer Blackened Chicken. You can also add cooked ground turkey, chicken or beef directly to the rice once it’s finished cooking.

What else pairs well with this rice?

If you want to step out of the box with something other than veggies and protein, mix the garlic turmeric rice with chickpeas and a drizzle of tzatziki. Cedar’s makes a variety of tzatziki flavors sure to elevate the dish. 

Other options are adding the rice to curry bowls, flatbreads, or Thai chicken noodles, omitting the noodles for the rice. 

Is this recipe gluten free and dairy free?

This recipe is gluten free but not dairy free due to the butter. To make this dairy free, add a non dairy butter alternative. Earth Balance can be found in most any grocery stores and has a taste very similar to butter that won’t overpower the dish. 

Ingredients and Substitutes:

These are the main ingredients and substitutions. See recipe card below for full ingredients list and instructions for Garlic Turmeric Rice.

Basmati Rice: I use 1 cup (180 grams) of uncooked basmati rice. You can use any rice you’d like for this recipe. 

Frozen Riced Cauliflower: you can rice your own cauliflower but I prefer to buy it frozen and pre-riced to save time. This recipe is using a 10 oz. frozen bag. 

Turmeric Powder:  turmeric is the showstopper of this dish and can be found in the spice aisle of your local grocery store. 

Toppings: fresh cilantro and parsley are two great herbs that can elevate this dish to the next level. As mentioned above, feel free to get creative with various proteins and veggies to make a well balanced meal. 

How to make this Garlic Turmeric Rice

Cook the rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer the rice for 15-20 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. 

Prepare the cauliflower

Add the frozen riced cauliflower to the microwave and cook according to package instructions.

Prepare the garlic and turmeric

While the rice and cauliflower cooks heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned and toasted. Be careful not to burn it, it will go quickly! 

Add the turmeric powder to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until the turmeric is fragrant and well-combined. 

Combine

Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let sit, covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork.

Next, add cauliflower and butter and mix well to combine. Finally, add the garlic turmeric mixture to the rice. Stir gently to combine, making sure the turmeric and garlic are evenly distributed throughout the rice. 

Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add fresh parsley or cilantro. 

What is a serving size?

It is always recommended you weigh your final dish and divide by the number of servings for the most accurate measurements as they change person to person.

This garlic turmeric rice recipe makes 8 servings at approximately 100 grams per serving. 

If you like this recipe be sure to check out some of our other easy rice recipes!

• Instant Pot Fried Rice 
• Easy Spanish Rice
• Mango Fried Rice
• Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl