Turmeric turns rice a rich, golden color while adding medicinal attributes but no flavor. The dried fruits give a bright, jeweled appearance and slightly sweet taste.
Golden Jeweled Rice
Serves 4
2/3 cup white rice or quick-cooking brown rice*
1 and 1/3 to 1½ cups fat-free reduced-sodium broth or water (or follow rice package instructions)
¼ cup dried apricots (or other dried fruit), cut into small pieces
¼ cup dried cranberries
- In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil, stir in rice and turmeric. When liquid comes to boil again, reduce heat, cover and simmer about 10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Meanwhile, place dried fruit in a small bowl. Add hot (but not boiling) water to cover. Let soak for 5 to 10 minutes, or until soft. Drain well.
- Remove rice from heat and stir in dried fruit. Cover and let stand 2 to 5 minutes. Lightly fluff mixture with a fork and serve.
*Regular brown rice can also be used. To shorten the usual 50-60 minutes required, follow package instructions regarding the amount of rice and water to use. Cook at a low boil (i.e., higher heat than a simmer) until rice is tender, about 30 minutes. Drain away any remaining liquid.
Nutrition information per serving: 104 cal., 0 g fat, 24 g carb., 3 g pro., 2 g dietary fiber.
