Kaning Dilaw (Golden Rice)

1. Combine water, rice, coconut cream, turmeric, salt and coconut oil in a large pot. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, cover and cook until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, 40 to 45 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve garnished with garlic and scallions, if desired.

Tips

Thicker and richer than coconut milk, coconut cream is the solid part that rises to the top of canned coconut milk. It's also sold separately. Skip anything labeled cream of coconut, which is sweetened and used to make things like cocktails.

You can find fried garlic and shallots premade at Asian markets and online. To make your own, heat 1/4 cup canola or avocado oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic cloves or shallots and cook, stirring often, until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes for garlic or 3 to 4 minutes for shallots. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Refrigerate any leftover flavored oil to use in savory recipes.