Yellow Basmati Rice with Cashews

This fragrant yellow basmati rice transforms any meal into something special. The combination of aromatic spices, sweet raisins, and crunchy cashews elevates this dish from a simple side to a memorable addition to your dinner table.

I discovered this recipe during a dinner party experiment gone wonderfully right. What started as a quick side dish for curry has become my most requested recipe when friends come over. The beautiful golden color never fails to impress.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice: Gives this dish its characteristic floral aroma and fluffy texture. Look for aged basmati for the best results
• Turmeric: Provides the gorgeous yellow color and earthy flavor. Always use fresh turmeric powder for the brightest color
• Curry powder: Adds complex depth without overwhelming the dish. Even mild curry powder works beautifully here
• Golden raisins: Offer little bursts of natural sweetness throughout the dish. Choose plump ones for the juiciest result
• Cashews: Bring essential crunch and nutty flavor. The roasted unsalted variety prevents the dish from becoming too salty
• Vegetable or chicken broth: Infuses the rice with flavor as it cooks. Homemade broth takes this dish to another level

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent but not browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Toast the Rice and Spices:

Add the rinsed basmati rice along with curry powder, turmeric, and salt to the pan. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until every grain is coated with the spices and smells fragrant. This crucial step blooms the spices and toasts the rice for deeper flavor.

Simmer to Perfection:

Pour in the broth and add the raisins, stirring once to distribute everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a full boil, then immediately reduce to a low simmer. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and cook undisturbed for exactly 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

Rest and Finish:

Remove the pan from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and become perfectly fluffy. Finally, add the cashews and optional herbs, then fluff gently with a fork to combine all ingredients without crushing the rice grains.

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Turmeric is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. Not only does it provide that eye-catching golden color, but it also offers subtle earthy notes that anchor all the other flavors. My grandmother always said a pinch of turmeric makes any rice dish feel special, and this recipe proves her wisdom every time.

Clever Substitutions

The beauty of this yellow rice lies in its adaptability. If raisins aren't your preference, dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots make excellent alternatives, adding their own unique sweetness. For those avoiding nuts, toasted sunflower seeds provide similar crunch without the cashews. Green peas can be added during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile rice pairs beautifully with countless main dishes. Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a simple weeknight meal. It makes an exceptional companion to Indian curries, absorbing the sauces beautifully. For a vegetarian feast, pair with roasted vegetables and a dollop of yogurt. The bright yellow color creates a stunning presentation when served on blue or white plates.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, sprinkle with a tablespoon of water, cover loosely, and microwave until steaming hot. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet with a small amount of oil, stirring occasionally. The flavors often deepen overnight, making day-old yellow rice even more delicious than freshly made.

Cultural Significance

Yellow rice appears in cuisines around the world, from Indian pilaf to South African geelrys to Puerto Rican arroz con gandules. While this version takes inspiration primarily from Indian cuisine with its curry powder and turmeric, it represents the beautiful way rice dishes evolve and adapt across cultures. Each family adds their own signature touch, creating new traditions with each generation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use brown basmati rice instead?

Yes, you can substitute brown basmati rice, but adjust the cooking time and liquid amount as needed to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly.

→ What can I use instead of cashews?

If you don’t have cashews, try using almonds, pistachios, or even sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

→ Is this dish spicy?

No, this dish is not spicy. It has warm, aromatic flavors from the turmeric and curry powder, but no heat.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

→ What dishes pair well with this yellow rice?

This rice pairs beautifully with dishes like chicken tikka masala, vegetable curry, grilled kabobs, or even roasted vegetables.

→ Can I omit the raisins?

Yes, you can omit the raisins if you prefer. The rice will still be flavorful and aromatic without the added sweetness.