Namaste and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, I have a delicious and flavorful recipe to share with you – Indian turkey rice. This dish is a perfect combination of fragrant basmati rice, tender chunks of turkey, and aromatic Indian spices. It’s also a great way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. With the help of your trusty rice cooker, this recipe is easy to follow and will fill your home with heavenly scents. So, let’s get cooking! We’ve made this indian turkey rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

indian turkey rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground turkey, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until the turkey is browned and cooked through, 8-10 minutes.
  2. Add the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, salt, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the spices. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
  4. Stir in the peas and raisins and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

indian turkey rice

How long does indian turkey rice last in the fridge?

Indian turkey rice, like any other cooked food, can be stored in the fridge for a certain period of time. Generally, it is safe to keep cooked rice and poultry dishes in the fridge for up to four days. However, it is important to properly store the dish in an airtight container and make sure it has fully cooled down before placing it in the fridge to prevent bacteria growth. It is also advisable to reheat the dish thoroughly before consumption to kill any remaining bacteria. Always use your best judgment when determining if leftovers are still safe to consume and when in doubt, it is better to err on the side of caution and dispose of them.

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Low calorie indian turkey rice recipe substitutions

To make this Indian Turkey Rice recipe lower calorie, some substitutions could be made. Instead of using ground turkey, one could use ground chicken or turkey breast which is lower in calories. Additionally, instead of using white rice, brown rice or quinoa could be used for a more fiber-rich and lower calorie option. Instead of using golden raisins, dried cranberries could be used which are lower in sugar and calories. Finally, to further reduce calories, the amount of oil used in the recipe could be reduced or cooking spray could be used instead.

What to serve with a indian turkey rice?

There are many options for serving alongside Indian turkey rice. Firstly, a refreshing raita made with plain yogurt, cucumber, and mint can help balance the spices in the rice dish. Alternatively, roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini can provide a delicious side dish. Another classic pairing is naan bread or papadum crackers. Finally, for those who enjoy a bit of heat, a side of spicy pickles or chutney can add an extra kick to the meal. Ultimately, the best side dish for Indian turkey rice will depend on personal preferences and dietary restrictions.

Whats the best sauce for a indian turkey rice?

There are several sauces that pair well with Indian turkey rice, but one of the best is a classic tomato-based curry sauce. To make this sauce, start by sautéing onions, garlic, ginger, and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder in oil. Then add diced tomatoes and simmer until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together. Finally, stir in some cream or yogurt to add richness and tanginess to the sauce. This curry sauce pairs perfectly with tender turkey meat and fluffy basmati rice, creating an aromatic and flavorful dish that is sure to impress.

Indian turkey rice health benefits

Indian turkey rice can have several health benefits. Turkey is a lean protein source with a low amount of fat and high amounts of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, selenium, and iron. Rice, especially brown rice, is a whole grain that is high in fiber, essential nutrients, and antioxidants. Indian spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion. However, the overall healthiness of the dish depends on the cooking method and added ingredients such as oil, cream, and salt. To make the dish even healthier, opt for cooking methods such as baking or grilling instead of frying, using low-fat yogurt instead of cream, and adding more vegetables like carrots, peas, and spinach. Another recipe that could be even healthier would be a lentil soup, which is high in plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, and can be seasoned with similar Indian spices.

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