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Turmeric Rice with Chickpeas

Turmeric Rice with Chickpeas

Turmeric Rice with Chickpeas is a vibrant, wholesome vegetarian dish combining fragrant turmeric-infused long-grain rice and protein-packed chickpeas. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, it offers warm, earthy flavors enhanced by cumin and coriander, making it an ideal nutritious meal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and ensure fluffy rice. Set aside while chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, to build depth of flavor.
  3. Toast the spices: Sprinkle in turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir constantly to lightly toast the spices and release their aromas without burning.
  4. Add rice and broth: Pour the rinsed rice into the saucepan and toss to coat each grain with the spices and aromatics. Add the rinsed chickpeas and vegetable broth, stir once to combine, then bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer until cooked: Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to retain steam.
  6. Fluff and finish: Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in fresh chopped cilantro if desired for a fresh, bright flavor.

Notes

  • Rinse rice thoroughly to keep grains separate and fluffy.
  • Use fresh spices for the most vibrant taste.
  • Toast spices gently over medium heat to avoid bitterness.
  • Let rice rest off the heat before serving for even texture.
  • Adjust salt and pepper gradually after cooking to prevent over-seasoning.

Nutrition

Keywords: turmeric rice, chickpeas, vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, easy recipe, quick meal, plant-based protein