Yellow Rice
Rice Dishes • Sri Lanka
About Yellow Rice
Fragrant turmeric and coconut-milk rice cooked with cardamom, cinnamon, and curry leaves — served at weddings and feasts.
How to Make Yellow Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Yellow Rice, known locally as 'Kaha Bath', is a beloved Sri Lankan dish celebrated for its vibrant color, aromatic spices, and festive appeal. Traditionally served at weddings, celebrations, and special occasions across Sri Lanka, this rice dish gets its golden hue from turmeric, which not only enhances its visual appeal but also infuses a subtle earthy flavor. The mildness of the rice allows it to pair beautifully with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries, sambols, and chutneys. In Sri Lankan culture, Yellow Rice is a symbol of prosperity and joy, often gracing the tables during religious festivals and family gatherings. Its delicate fragrance, courtesy of pandan leaves, cinnamon, and cloves, reflects the island’s rich culinary heritage. This healthy version is light on oil and uses only wholesome ingredients, making it suitable for those who are mindful of their calorie intake. If you are seeking an authentic taste of Sri Lanka that is both nutritious and visually stunning, this Yellow Rice recipe is the perfect addition to your meal rotation.
Ingredients(for 1 cup cooked Yellow Rice per serving)
- 1 cup Basmati Rice (or Sri Lankan Samba rice)
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Kaha kudu)
- 1/2 cup Coconut Milk (thin, second extract preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups Water
- 1 inch Cinnamon Stick (Kurundu)
- 3 Cloves (Karabu nati)
- 2 Cardamom Pods (Enasal)
- 1 small piece Pandan Leaf (Rampe, optional but authentic) - optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Vegetable Oil (Coconut oil preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Onion (finely sliced)
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati or samba rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
3 minutes
Washing rice removes excess starch for fluffier grains.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
4 minutes
Avoid browning the onions to maintain the rice’s delicate flavor.
- 3
Add cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and pandan leaf (if using). Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
1 minute
Whole spices infuse the rice with authentic Sri Lankan aroma.
- 4
Add the rinsed rice to the pan. Stir gently to coat the grains with the oil and spices.
2 minutes
Gently coating the rice ensures even color and flavor distribution.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Yellow Rice is a health-conscious choice because it relies on natural spices for flavor, uses minimal oil, and incorporates coconut milk for creaminess instead of butter or ghee. The dish is nutrient-dense, provides sustained energy, and is lighter than many pilaf-style rice dishes. Its balanced macronutrient profile makes it suitable for weight management and vegetarian diets.
This Sri Lankan Yellow Rice is low in calories and fat, with each serving providing about 192 calories, 4.2g of protein, 33g carbohydrates, and just 5.1g of fat. The use of turmeric offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, while coconut milk provides healthy fats and a creamy texture without the heaviness of dairy. Basmati rice is a good source of energy and contains essential B vitamins. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for vegan diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh, good-quality turmeric for the brightest color and best flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Always let the rice rest covered after cooking to achieve perfect, separate grains.
- 💡Tip 3: For a festive touch, garnish with fried onions or a few curry leaves before serving.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled yellow rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 192.0 kcal |
| Protein | 4.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 33.0 g |
| Total Fat | 5.1 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
