Cilantro lime rice is a flavorful and refreshing side dish that brightens up any meal. Its tangy lime notes and fresh cilantro make it a versatile companion to a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats to vibrant curries.
Ingredients Overview
Every ingredient in this dish contributes to its balanced flavor and delightful texture. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous aroma and color, while lime juice delivers a tangy brightness that complements the rice. Extra long grain or basmati rice is ideal for its fluffiness and ability to absorb flavors. Vegetable oil ensures the rice doesn’t stick together and adds a subtle richness, while salt enhances all the other ingredients. For those looking to personalize the dish, olive oil can be substituted for a deeper, more complex flavor, and a bit of lime zest can amplify the citrusy profile.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Begin by preparing the rice base. Choosing the right type of rice is crucial—basmati or extra long grain rice provides the perfect light and fluffy texture. Measure the water-to-rice ratio accurately; two cups of water for one cup of rice ensures that the grains cook evenly without becoming mushy.
Bring the mixture of rice, water, 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, and salt to a boil over high heat. As the water evaporates and begins to skim the surface of the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot tightly with a lid. This slow, gentle simmering process allows the rice to cook thoroughly, resulting in a perfectly fluffy texture.
After the rice has simmered for 20 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice rest for an additional five minutes. This step is essential, as the residual steam evenly finishes the cooking process, leaving every grain tender.
Transfer the cooked rice to a medium mixing bowl. Add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and the remaining vegetable oil. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every grain is coated and infused with the vibrant flavors. Serve immediately to enjoy its full aroma and zest.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the Right Rice:
Basmati or extra long grain rice is preferred for its ability to remain light and fluffy after cooking.
Perfect Simmering:
Always use a pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam, which is key to evenly cooked rice.
Flavor Enhancements:
Add a touch of lime zest or a pinch of minced garlic to boost the flavor.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and water ratio as brown rice takes longer to cook.
What’s the best way to avoid sticky rice?
Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, and ensure proper water measurement.
How can I make the dish spicier or more flavorful?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño to the cilantro and lime mixture.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Cilantro lime rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Use it as a base for burrito bowls, topped with beans, avocado, and salsa, or as a vibrant accompaniment to spicy curries. Its tangy and fresh flavors also complement heavier dishes, adding a light contrast to the plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, transfer the rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To maintain its flavor and moisture, reheat in a microwave with a damp paper towel covering the container or gently steam it on the stovetop. Avoid overheating to prevent the rice from drying out.
Cilantro lime rice is a simple yet vibrant dish that enhances any meal with its refreshing flavors. Its versatility makes it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire, whether as a side dish or a flavorful base for your favorite bowls. Experiment with flavors and pairings to make this recipe your own.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
3 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 cup extra long grain rice or basmati rice
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups water
Juice of ½ lime
Instructions
In a small, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the rice, water, 1 teaspoon of oil, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Allow it to cook until most of the water has evaporated.
Once the water is just level with the surface of the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This gentle cooking process ensures the rice absorbs all the flavors and becomes fluffy.
Turn off the heat and keep the pot covered for an additional 5 minutes. This resting time allows the steam to finish cooking the rice evenly.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and the remaining vegetable oil. Toss thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed, and the rice is fragrant and vibrant. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
- 3 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup extra long grain rice or basmati rice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups water
- Juice of ½ lime
Instructions
- In a small, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the rice, water, 1 teaspoon of oil, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Allow it to cook until most of the water has evaporated.
- Once the water is just level with the surface of the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This gentle cooking process ensures the rice absorbs all the flavors and becomes fluffy.
- Turn off the heat and keep the pot covered for an additional 5 minutes. This resting time allows the steam to finish cooking the rice evenly.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and the remaining vegetable oil. Toss thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed, and the rice is fragrant and vibrant. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
