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Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

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4.6 from 41 reviews

This Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is a flavorful side dish combining fragrant basmati rice with fresh lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro. Cooked in chicken or vegetable stock for enhanced taste and finished with a touch of butter, it is perfect for complementing Mexican, Southwestern, or grilled meals.

Ingredients

Rice and Cooking Ingredients

  • 1 cup long grain basmati rice
  • 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, highly recommended)

Flavors

  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Zest of one lime
  • 1 cup cilantro leaves, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer or bowl and rinse several times by gently scrubbing with your fingertips to remove excess starch and any dirt, preventing sticking.
  2. Sauté the rice: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir continuously until the rice just begins to turn slightly translucent but avoid browning it.
  3. Add the liquid: Pour in 2 cups of chicken stock or vegetable stock for vegetarian option. Scrape down any rice sticking to the sides into the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-low heat.
  4. Simmer uncovered: Cook the rice uncovered until the water level drops below the surface of the rice. Then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
  5. Cook covered: Let the rice simmer gently on the lowest heat setting for about 12 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid fully without stirring to prevent burning or clumping.
  6. Rest the rice: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered and undisturbed, for 5 to 10 minutes to finish cooking through the steam for fluffy texture.
  7. Finish and fluff: Open the lid, add the butter, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Gently fluff the rice with a fork or spatula. Add salt to taste if needed.
  8. Serve: Serve the cilantro lime rice warm alongside your favorite dishes such as grilled meats, tacos, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice removes surface starch to keep the grains separate and fluffy.
  • Using chicken or vegetable stock instead of water enhances the flavor.
  • Do not stir rice while cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • Letting rice rest covered after cooking helps steam finish the cooking process and improve texture.
  • Butter is optional but adds richness and depth to the flavor.
  • Adjust lime juice and salt according to your taste preference.

Find it online: https://hotsavors.com/cilantro-lime-rice-recipe/