Easy Rice Recipe for Lunch | Turmeric Rice & Nigerian Beef Stew

beef

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner and pork is often less expensive.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil offers healthier fats, while canola is budget-friendly.

turmeric

🥗Healthier: saffron

💰Cheaper: yellow food coloring

Saffron is a premium spice, while food coloring is a low-cost alternative.

stock or broth

🥗Healthier: water with seasonings

💰Cheaper: water

Using water with seasonings cuts costs while still adding flavor.

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Soak rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in diced tomatoes and bell peppers, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Add turmeric, curry powder, thyme, and bay leaves, stirring to combine.

Pour in stock or broth, bringing to a boil.

Add drained rice, stirring to incorporate, then reduce heat to low.

Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Meanwhile, season beef with salt and black pepper.

Brown beef in a separate pot over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.

Add chopped onions, cooking until soft, about 5 minutes.

Stir in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Add water or stock to cover beef, simmering for 45 minutes until tender.

Finish stew with green peas, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: