Yellow rice is white rice cooked with a colouring spice, most commonly turmeric or saffron. The South African version, geelrys, is distinct for including raisins, a touch of sugar, and a cinnamon stick, giving it a gentle sweetness and warmth. It's traditionally served as a side dish alongside spiced meat dishes.

Is yellow rice healthy?

It's a carbohydrate-based side dish, similar in energy content to plain white rice. The turmeric adds a small anti-inflammatory benefit via curcumin. The sugar and raisins add natural sweetness but the quantities per serve are modest. It fits comfortably into a balanced diet.

Can you make yellow rice in a rice cooker?

Yes — it works really well in a rice cooker and requires even less attention. Add all the ingredients to the cooker, set it going.

How long does yellow rice last in the fridge?

Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat with a small splash of water to keep it from drying out. Follow food safety standards.

What's the difference between yellow rice and saffron rice?

Yellow rice is the broad category — rice coloured with turmeric, saffron, or annatto depending on the recipe's origin. Saffron rice specifically uses saffron threads, which give a more delicate, floral flavour and a warmer amber tone. Turmeric-based yellow rice has a more earthy flavour and a brighter, more vivid yellow. This recipe uses turmeric.

Easy Yellow Rice Recipe (Ready in 20 Minutes)

Name: Yellow Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: South African
Ingredients: 1 cup rice; 2 cups water; 1 tsp turmeric (or to taste); 1/3 cup raisins; 1 cinnamon stick; 1½ tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp butter; salt

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup rice
2 cups water
1 tsp turmeric (or to taste)
1/3 cup raisins
1 cinnamon stick
1 1/2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp butter
salt

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Instructions

Build the flavour base: In a pot, combine the water, turmeric, cinnamon stick, sugar and salt (do not add the butter or raisins yet). Stir to mix.
Add rice: Add the rice and stir once to combine.
Bring to a boil: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
Cook gently: Simmer for about 8 minutes, until most of the water is absorbed. (note 1)
Add raisins: Scatter the raisins over the rice, do not stir. (note 2)
Steam finish: Cover and cook on very low heat for a further 2 minutes, until fully cooked.
Add butter and fluff: Add the butter, remove the cinnamon stick, then gently fluff the rice with a fork.
Serve: Serve warm.

Notes

Rice cooking times vary: Different types of rice may need more or less liquid and time. Follow your packet as a guide and adjust cooking time if needed.
Raisins timing: Add the raisins in the final 2 minutes of cooking, once most of the water has been absorbed, then let the rice finish steaming.

Prep Time: 5
Cook Time: 10
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: South African