This turmeric rice pilaf with cashews combines the warm, earthy flavors of turmeric with the rich creaminess of cashews, creating a wholesome side dish that not only tastes fantastic but also looks vibrant on your plate.
Best Rice for Turmeric Rice Pilaf
When making turmeric rice pilaf, the choice of rice plays a significant role in the texture and flavor of the dish. For a perfect turmeric rice pilaf, you’ll want a rice variety that can absorb the flavors well while maintaining a light, fluffy texture. Here are the best types of rice to use:
Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is the most popular and highly recommended choice for turmeric rice pilaf. Its long, aromatic grains cook up fluffy and separate, making it ideal for pilafs. Basmati rice has a naturally fragrant aroma, which complements the earthy, warm flavors of turmeric and other spices in the pilaf. It also absorbs the vibrant yellow color of the turmeric beautifully, giving the dish a gorgeous golden hue.
Why it’s great:
- Light, fluffy texture
- Fragrant and aromatic
- Absorbs flavors well
- Classic choice for pilafs
Jasmine Rice
If you prefer a slightly softer rice, jasmine rice is another great option. It’s a long-grain rice known for its subtle floral aroma. While it’s stickier than basmati, it still works well in a pilaf. Jasmine rice absorbs the turmeric color and spices wonderfully, creating a flavorful dish with a slightly more delicate texture.
Why it’s great:
- Soft and slightly sticky texture
- Mild floral aroma
- Absorbs turmeric and spices well
Long-Grain White Rice
For a more budget-friendly option, long-grain white rice can also be used for turmeric rice pilaf. It’s less aromatic than basmati or jasmine rice but still produces a fluffy and separate grain when cooked. It’s a versatile rice that works well in pilaf recipes.
Why it’s great:
- Fluffy texture
- Budget-friendly
- Mild flavor, which lets the turmeric shine
Ingredients You’ll Need for this Rice Recipe
To prepare this easy turmeric cashew rice, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice – basmati or white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 cup cashews -roughly chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro and extra cashews for garnish – optional
How to Prepare Turmeric Cashew Rice Pilaf
- Start by rinsing the 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, melt and heat 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the 1 medium chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Add in the 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon turmeric powder and cook for another minute.
- Add the rinsed rice to the mixture, followed by the 2 cups vegetable broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low*, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed the liquid. In the last few minutes of cooking, fold in the 1/2 cup roughly chopped cashews.
- Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, serve it warm, and garnish with fresh cilantro and additional cashews if you like.
RECIPE NOTES*
It is important to cook the rice on low, so it simmers for optimal flavor.
What to serve with Turmeric Rice Pilaf
Turmeric rice pilaf is a flavorful and aromatic dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes, proteins, and vegetables. Here are some great options to serve with turmeric rice pilaf to create a balanced and delicious meal:
Grilled or Roasted Chicken:
The savory flavors of grilled or roasted chicken complement the fragrant, spiced turmeric rice beautifully. Consider serving it with grilled chicken skewers or roast chicken thighs seasoned with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Try this turmeric rice with our homemade bourbon chicken recipe.
Lamb or Beef Kebabs:
The richness of grilled lamb or beef kebabs works perfectly with turmeric rice pilaf. The spices and charred exterior of the meat will complement the earthy turmeric flavors in the rice. Try marinating the meat in garlic, cumin, and coriander before grilling for extra flavor.
Grilled Fish or Seafood:
Grilled or pan-seared fish, such as salmon, tilapia, or cod, pairs excellently with the light, fragrant rice. The subtle flavors of the fish let the turmeric rice shine, while the fish adds a fresh and protein-packed component. This rice is also a fantastic base for a grilled shrimp bowl or as a side dish to accompany this crispy chili shrimp scampi main dish.
Roasted or Grilled Vegetables:
Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, cauliflower and/or carrots, pair perfectly with turmeric rice pilaf. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables complements the warm spices in the rice, and the combination makes for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
There are so many dishes that pair well with this turmeric cashew rice, the possibilities are endless!
Turmeric Rice Pilaf with Cashews Recipe
This turmeric rice pilaf with cashews combines the warm, earthy flavors of turmeric with the rich creaminess of cashews, creating a wholesome side dish that not only tastes fantastic but also looks vibrant on your plate.
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice – basmati or white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 cup cashews -roughly chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro and extra cashews for garnish – optional
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, melt and heat 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the 1 medium chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Add in the 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon turmeric powder and cook for another minute.
- Add the rinsed rice to the mixture, followed by the 2 cups vegetable broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed the liquid. In the last few minutes of cooking, fold in the 1/2 cup roughly chopped cashews.
- Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, serve it warm, and garnish with fresh cilantro and additional cashews if you like.
Notes
It is important to cook the rice on low, so it simmers for optimal flavor.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 327Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 713mgCarbohydrates: 44gFiber: 2gSugar: 3gProtein: 7g
The nutritional information provided for the recipes on this blog is an estimate and is based on standard ingredient portions. Actual nutritional values may vary depending on factors such as ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. For precise dietary needs or concerns, please consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist.
