What is the best rice for yellow rice?

Basmati makes the rice light and fluffy (yellow basmati rice recipe), while jasmine adds a fragrant note (yellow jasmine rice recipe). Long grain is a classic choice for a more traditional texture.

Can I make yellow rice without turmeric?

Yes. Use saffron or annatto instead for the golden color (yellow rice recipe without turmeric).

Is yellow rice healthy?

It can be part of a balanced meal when paired with lean proteins and vegetables (healthy yellow rice recipe). I’m not a nutritionist — just sharing what’s worked in my kitchen.

Yes. Use vegetable broth and olive oil instead of butter (vegan yellow rice recipe).

How do I make it more flavorful?

Sauté aromatics longer, bloom spices in oil, and use a rich broth for depth (flavorful yellow rice recipe, fragrant yellow rice recipe).

Can I add protein to yellow rice?

Absolutely. Try it with chicken, shrimp, or beans (yellow rice and chicken recipe, yellow rice and shrimp recipe, yellow rice and beans recipe).

Yellow Rice Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, And Family-Friendly

Description

Fluffy, golden yellow rice recipe with turmeric or saffron, perfect for pairing with meats, seafood, or vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups rice – basmati for light, fluffy grains, jasmine for fragrance, or long grain for a classic texture
1½ teaspoons turmeric or ¼ teaspoon saffron threads – for color and warm flavor; Annatto can be used for a subtle, earthy tone
3 cups chicken broth – or vegetable broth for vegetarian; swap in 1 cup coconut milk plus 2 cups broth for a creamy twist
½ cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bay leaf
½ teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons butter – or olive oil for dairy-free
Optional: 1 cup peas, corn, or beans; 1 cup cooked shrimp or chicken

Instructions

Rinse and soak rice: Rinse rice and soak for 10 minutes, then drain to ensure fluffy texture.
Sauté aromatics: In a medium pot, melt butter or warm oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, cumin, and bay leaf.
Add spices: Stir in turmeric, saffron, or annatto; bloom for 30 seconds to release color and aroma.
Coat the rice: Add drained rice, stirring for 1–2 minutes to coat every grain with seasoning.
Add liquid: Pour in broth (and coconut milk if using), stir gently, and bring to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18–20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
Fluff and serve: Remove from heat, discard bay leaf, and fluff with a fork before serving.

Notes

Swap part of the broth with coconut milk for creaminess.
Use vegetable broth and olive oil for a vegan version.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Spanish

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 210
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 340mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: yellow rice recipe