Fragrant Turmeric Lotus Root and Kelp Rice
Nutrient-Rich Healthy Rice with Turmeric, Kelp, and Lotus Root
While contemplating how to best use turmeric powder, I discovered that infusing the rice water with turmeric and adding kelp broth with tender lotus root creates a truly delicious dish. The subtle aroma of turmeric, the satisfying chewiness of lotus root, and the umami from the kelp harmonize beautifully. This is a highly recommended recipe for special occasions or when aiming for a healthy meal!
Main Ingredients- Turmeric powder, a pinch (approx. 1/2 tsp)
- Kelp, 1 handful (palm-sized)
- Lotus root, 1 bag (approx. 200g, pre-prepped)
- Red chili pepper, 1/2
- Rice, 2 cups
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly wash 2 cups of rice and prepare it. Place the washed rice in your rice cooker. Add about 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder to the water and gently mix it to adjust the rice water level. Be mindful that too much turmeric powder can result in a strong, slightly bitter taste, so it’s best to start with a small amount and adjust to your preference. Ensure the turmeric-infused water is evenly distributed throughout the rice.
Step 2
Peel the lotus root and slice it into approximately 1cm thick rounds. Fill a pot with ample water, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and boil the lotus root for 10 minutes. This process helps to remove any astringency from the lotus root and preserves its crisp texture. You’ll notice the water turning a light yellow as it cooks – this is the turmeric component leaching out, so don’t be concerned.
Step 3
Soak the kelp in cold water for about 30 minutes until it’s fully rehydrated. Lightly rinse the softened kelp to remove excess salt, then steep it in rice water or cold water for 10 minutes to create a flavorful kelp broth. (Alternatively, you can lightly blanch the kelp and add it directly to the rice). Remove the seeds from the red chili pepper and slice it thinly. Arrange the prepared lotus root and red chili pepper slices on top of the rice. Pour the turmeric-infused rice water over the rice, add the kelp broth, and cook your rice. This will result in a delicious Turmeric Lotus Root and Kelp Rice! Make sure to spread all the ingredients evenly over the rice before cooking.
