Rice is one of those alternate starches that accommodates many variations.   This is easy and not “too different” to appeal to kid.  Geelrys is one of many South African dishes with roots in the Dutch East Indies. This sunny yellow side dish is the traditional accompaniment to nayama choma (roasted meat).  

Ingredients: 

• 4 c water or stock
• 2 1/2 c long grained or Basmati rice
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 or 2 Tab brown sugar
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• 1/2 c raisins

Directions:

1. Add the water or stock to a large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Add the remaining ingredients and return to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and set aside, covered, for another 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Discard cinnamon stick, fluff with a fork and serve hot.

Variations:

You can use instant rice also.  Boil all the ingredients except the rice for 5 minutes, then add the rice (using the ratio of water to rice recommended) and cook according to the directions on the box.
Golden raisins (sultanas) work very well with this dish.
Stir 1 or 2 tablespoons of butter into the cooked rice at the end.

Serves: 4 – 6

Source:  geniuskitchen.com