Ginger-Turmeric Rice Pilaf with Toasted Almonds
Fragrant basmati rice infused with fresh ginger and turmeric, accented by toasted almonds for crunch and nutty flavor. This Indian-inspired rice and grain recipe, ready in about 35 minutes, pairs basmati rice, water, fresh ginger, minced for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
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Equipment for this recipe
Tools this recipe's steps call for, with a link to each on Amazon.
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse 1 cup basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear, then drain.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1/2 chopped onion and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper, cooking for 30 seconds to release aromas.
- Step 4: Add the drained rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until rice grains are coated and slightly translucent.
- Step 5: Pour in 2 cups water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly. Simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and let the rice steam covered for an additional 10 minutes.
- Step 7: Fluff rice with a fork and fold in 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds before serving.









