Turmeric rice (nasi kunyit)

Meaning turmeric rice, nasi kunyit is often served as a side dish in a banquet. As it looks like a pile of gold it is usually served at special events to signify good fortune, wealth and dignity.

• serves

  4

• prep

  15 minutes

• cook

  20 minutes

• difficulty

  Easy

Ingredients

• 450 g (2¼ cups) glutinous rice
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 3 pandanus leaves (see Note), bruised, tied in a knot
• 125 ml (½ cup) coconut milk

Soaking time 8 hours

Instructions

Rinse rice under cold running water, then combine in a bowl with turmeric and enough water to cover. Soak for 8 hours or overnight.

Drain rice, then place in a steamer lined with muslin or a clean tea towel. Add pandanus leaves, cover tightly, then place steamer over a saucepan of simmering water and cook for 20 minutes or until rice is tender. Transfer to a bowl, discarding leaves. Using a large metal spoon, stir in coconut milk and a pinch of salt. Serve immediately.

Note

• Pandanus leaves are from Asian food shops.

Photography Steve Brown

As seen in Feast magazine, May 2014, Issue 31. For more recipes and articles, pick up a copy of this month's Feast magazine or check out our great subscriptions offers here.

Cook's Notes

Oven temperatures are for conventional; if using fan-forced (convection), reduce the temperature by 20˚C. | We use Australian tablespoons and cups: 1 teaspoon equals 5 ml; 1 tablespoon equals 20 ml; 1 cup equals 250 ml. | All herbs are fresh (unless specified) and cups are lightly packed. | All vegetables are medium size and peeled, unless specified. | All eggs are 55-60 g, unless specified.