RECIPE: Turmeric Rice

Turmeric is well known for its healthy qualities and can be found fresh in Hawai`i Island farmers markets right now.  Grating or fine chopping turmeric and adding it to a dish gives a multitude of color, taste, and health benefits.  Beware that turmeric can stain anything it touches, and some cooks prefer to handle it with gloves.  This dish is a winning combination of flavors and textures and can be served as a side dish or a delicious simple main dish.

Fresh turmeric, Photo credit: Kristin Frost Albrecht.

Turmeric Rice

Ingredients:

1 cup long grain rice

2-1/4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1/4 teaspoon fresh turmeric, finely chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 cup onion, chopped

1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced

1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1/4 cup dried papaya, chopped

3 tablespoons coarsely chopped macadamia nuts

Directions:

1. In a medium sauce pan, heat oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring often, until onions are translucent.
3. Add garlic, turmeric, and rice and cook 2-3 minutes.
4. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer. Add dried papaya, macadamia nuts, and green onions and stir gently to combine. Cover and cook 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.

Quick and easy option:  Use your favorite rice pilaf mix and add chopped turmeric, garlic, onion, pepper, green onions, papaya, and nuts to the cooking process.

Add chick peas (garbanzo beans) for additional tasty protein!

This post has been a contribution by Kristin Frost Albrecht on behalf of The Food Basket, Hawai’i Island’s Food Bank.