Description
A vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean Yellow Rice recipe infused with turmeric, cumin, and paprika, cooked to fluffy perfection and garnished with fresh herbs and toasted pine nuts. Ideal as a side dish to complement dishes like Lamb Koftas or Greek Chicken Kabobs.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Spices
- 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
- 2 ¼ cups water
- 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed
Garnish
- 2 Tbsp. cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp. parsley (flat-leaf), finely chopped
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then add minced garlic and continue sautéing for 1 more minute to release its aroma.
- Add Spices: Stir in turmeric, cumin, paprika, and salt. Toast the spices in the pot for about 1 minute until they become fragrant, ensuring an even spice distribution.
- Add Water and Rice: Pour in the water, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits for extra flavor. Add 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 and reduce heat to low. Let the rice simmer gently for 20 minutes or until tender and fluffy, absorbing all the water.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Gently fluff the rice with a fork, then fold in the chopped cilantro, parsley, and toasted pine nuts. Serve immediately alongside Mediterranean dishes such as Lamb Koftas or Greek Chicken Kabobs with Tzatziki sauce.
Notes
- Rinsing the basmati rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on dietary preferences.
- Use a pot with a heavy bottom to avoid burning the rice during cooking.
- For a nuttier flavor, you can substitute olive oil with butter or ghee.
- This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and fresh Mediterranean salads.
