Trinidad Saffron Rice (Yellow Rice)
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish, often served as a side to various curries and stews. The vibrant yellow color comes from saffron or turmeric, and it's typically seasoned with aromatics.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Long-grain rice(rinsed)
- 3 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1/2 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder or saffron threads(for color and flavor)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 2 sprigs Optional: Thyme sprigs
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
💡 Tip: Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing mushy rice. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the turmeric powder (or saffron threads) and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- 5
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the aromatics and spices.
💡 Tip: Toasting the rice slightly enhances its flavor. - 6
Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Add salt, pepper, and thyme sprigs (if using). Bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: If using saffron, steep it in a tablespoon of warm water before adding to the pot. - 7
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- 8
Remove from heat and let it steam, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering to ensure even cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of turmeric or saffron to your preference for color and flavor.
- ✓This rice pairs wonderfully with curried chicken, fish, or vegetables.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of curry powder along with the turmeric for a more complex flavor.
- Stir in some peas or corn towards the end of cooking for added texture and color.