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Easy Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

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4.3 from 14 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful cilantro lime rice that's easy to make and perfect as a side dish for Mexican, Tex-Mex, or any meal needing a citrusy, herby twist. This recipe features jasmine rice sautéed with garlic, cooked to fluffy perfection, and finished with fresh lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro.

Ingredients

Rice Base

  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 2 cups water or veggie/chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Flavorings

  • 1 lime (zested and juiced)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup finely diced green onion (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy texture once cooked.
  2. Sauté Rice and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and minced garlic, toasting them together for 3-4 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent and fragrant.
  3. Bring to a Boil: Add the water or broth and salt to the pot with the toasted rice. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid.
  5. Finish Cooking Uncovered: Remove the lid and continue cooking the rice uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. This step prevents the rice from becoming mushy by letting excess moisture evaporate.
  6. Fluff the Rice: Turn off the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. If the rice feels a bit undercooked, cover the pot again and let it steam with the heat off for about 10 minutes to achieve desired tenderness.
  7. Serve: Stir in the finely chopped cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice. Add optional green onions and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve warm and enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice is key to removing excess starch and ensuring fluffy rice.
  • Simmering with the lid on allows rice to absorb the liquid, while finishing uncovered prevents sogginess.
  • Steaming off heat can improve texture if rice is slightly undercooked.
  • Using broth instead of water adds extra flavor.
  • Optional green onions and red pepper flakes add additional depth and a hint of heat.

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