Yellow rice – a staple dish that brings together flavors from around the world. Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to your meals or simply want to explore new cuisines, yellow rice is a great place to start. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across cultures and continents, showcasing 18 flavorful yellow rice recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From the exotic spices of Moroccan Yellow Rice with Raisins and Almonds to the comforting simplicity of Filipino Garlic Yellow Rice, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the unique flavors of its respective culture. With ingredients ranging from saffron and turmeric to coconut and pineapple, these yellow rice dishes are a true celebration of global cuisine.
Spanish Saffron Yellow Rice with Peas
This classic Spanish dish is a staple in many Mediterranean cuisines. This recipe combines the aromatic flavor of saffron with sweet peas, creating a flavorful and colorful side dish perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the rice, water, saffron mixture, and salt. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in frozen peas during the last minute of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turmeric Coconut Yellow Rice
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and aromatic yellow rice dish, infused with the warmth of turmeric and creaminess of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add turmeric, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Add coconut milk and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mexican Arroz Amarillo with Corn
This classic Mexican recipe combines flavorful yellow rice with sweet corn and savory spices, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice to the pan and stir-fry for 2 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spoon.
4. Add paprika, cumin, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Add water to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in corn kernels. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until corn is heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Moroccan Yellow Rice with Raisins and Almonds
This fragrant and flavorful side dish is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or stews. With the added sweetness from raisins and crunch from toasted almonds, it’s a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with spices.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is cooked.
7. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in raisins and toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Jeera Yellow Rice with Cashews
This flavorful Indian-inspired dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite curries or as a side for special occasions. The addition of toasted cashews adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (jeera)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup toasted cashews
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin, salt, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the soaked saffron threads and their liquid to the saucepan. Stir well.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Toast the cashews in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant.
8. Fluff the yellow rice with a fork and garnish with toasted cashews.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Persian Saffron Yellow Rice with Barberries
This classic Persian dish is a staple of celebrations and everyday meals alike. With its vibrant yellow color and sweet-tart flavor, it’s no wonder why this saffron-infused rice dish is a beloved favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup barberries (zereshk), rinsed and drained
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the soaked saffron threads with their liquid to the saucepan and stir to combine.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the saffron mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the barberries.
8. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cuban Yellow Rice with Black Beans
This classic Cuban side dish combines flavorful yellow rice with creamy black beans, perfect for accompanying your favorite Latin-inspired dishes. With a few simple steps and aromatic spices, you’ll be enjoying this vibrant and savory combination in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
4. Add water, saffron, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in black beans and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Pineapple Yellow Fried Rice
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the warmth of Thai spices and a burst of yellow color from turmeric.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, pineapple, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet or wok. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Push rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in beaten eggs (if using) and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with rice mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peruvian Aji Amarillo Yellow Rice
A vibrant and flavorful side dish that complements many Peruvian dishes, this Aji Amarillo Yellow Rice recipe adds a pop of color and heat to any meal. This aromatic rice is infused with the bright yellow color and spicy kick of the Aji Amarillo pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh Aji Amarillo pepper (or 1 teaspoon dried Aji Amarillo powder)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with garlic and onion. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the water, Aji Amarillo pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Jamaican Curry Yellow Rice with Pigeon Peas
This flavorful side dish is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, perfect for accompanying your favorite proteins or as a standalone meal. The combination of saffron-infused yellow rice, rich curry powder, and sweet pigeon peas creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked yellow rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 cup pigeon peas (or cooked black-eyed peas as a substitute)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add grated ginger, curry powder, cumin, and saffron mixture; stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Stir in pigeon peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Lemon Yellow Rice with Feta
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional Greek rice, this recipe combines the warm flavors of lemon and herbs with the salty tang of feta cheese. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for other Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add the water, lemon juice, and oregano to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brazilian Yellow Rice with Hearts of Palm
This flavorful side dish is a staple in Brazilian cuisine, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a base for other dishes. The combination of saffron-infused rice, tender hearts of palm, and subtle spices creates a delightful and aromatic experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 medium heart of palm, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water and soaked saffron, stirring well.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Stir in the sliced hearts of palm and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Filipino Garlic Yellow Rice
Elevate your meals with this flavorful and aromatic Filipino Garlic Yellow Rice recipe! This classic dish is a staple in many Filipino households, perfect for pairing with grilled meats, seafood, or as a side to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked yellow rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (1 minute).
4. Add the rinsed yellow rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat with oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Middle Eastern Yellow Rice with Lamb
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of lamb with the warmth of yellow rice, perfect for a satisfying meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add lamb, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up meat with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with lamb mixture.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Stir in saffron threads and their liquid. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caribbean Coconut Yellow Rice with Plantains
This recipe combines the warmth of Caribbean spices with the sweetness of coconut and plantains, resulting in a deliciously aromatic side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked yellow rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt to taste
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the rice, cumin, curry powder, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the water, coconut milk, and plantain slices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
South African Geelrys with Apricots
This sweet and crunchy snack is a classic South African treat that combines the flavors of apricots, ginger, and spices. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine apricots, brown sugar, honey, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in chopped nuts, if using.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper.
6. Allow to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Indonesian Turmeric Yellow Rice with Tempeh
This vibrant and aromatic rice dish is a staple in Indonesian cuisine, often served alongside grilled meats or as a side to spicy dishes. Our recipe combines the warmth of turmeric with the nutty flavor of tempeh for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt to taste
– 4 ounces tempeh, crumbled
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
2. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and turmeric to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the spice mixture.
5. Serve warm, topped with crumbled tempeh and garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Yellow Rice with Chickpeas and Spinach
This flavorful and nutritious dish is a perfect side or main course option. It combines the warmth of saffron-infused yellow rice with the protein-rich chickpeas, wilted spinach, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in the chickpeas, cumin, and spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach wilts (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt to taste.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Add the soaked saffron threads and stir well.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Spice up your meals with these 18 flavorful yellow rice recipes! From Spanish saffron to Moroccan raisins and almonds, each dish offers a unique twist on traditional yellow rice. Try Indian jeera with cashews, Persian saffron with barberries, or Jamaican curry with pigeon peas for a taste of international cuisine. Or go for something sweet like Brazilian hearts of palm or Thai pineapple fried rice. With these recipes, you’ll never get bored with the same old side dish again.
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