Description
This Mediterranean Yellow Rice recipe is a fragrant and colorful side dish featuring basmati rice infused with turmeric, cumin, and paprika. Enhanced with fresh herbs and toasted pine nuts, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or Mediterranean dishes for a vibrant, delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Rice
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- ½ sweet onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ¾ tsp. turmeric
- ¼ tsp. cumin
- ¼ tsp. paprika
- 1 ¼ tsp. salt (to taste)
- 2 ¼ cups water
- 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed
Garnishes
- 2 Tbsp. cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp. parsley (flat-leaf), finely chopped
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its aroma.
- Add Spices: Stir in turmeric, cumin, paprika, and salt. Toast the spices with the onion and garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing their flavors.
- Add Water and Rice: Pour in 2 ¼ cups of water, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits for extra flavor. Add the rinsed basmati rice, stir well, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and let the rice simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
- Finish With Herbs and Pine Nuts: Remove the pot from heat. Gently mix in the chopped cilantro, parsley, and toasted pine nuts. Serve immediately alongside Mediterranean dishes like Lamb Koftas or Greek Chicken Kabobs with Tzatziki sauce.
Notes
- Rinsing the basmati rice removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Use a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking and fluffy rice.
- Toast pine nuts carefully on medium heat to avoid burning and bring out their nuttiness.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if serving with salty accompaniments.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
