Description
This Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is a flavorful and aromatic side dish inspired by Chipotle, featuring fluffy long grain rice infused with fresh lime juice, zesty cilantro, and a hint of olive oil. Perfectly balanced with tangy and herbaceous notes, this simple yet delicious rice is an excellent accompaniment to Mexican dishes or grilled proteins.
Ingredients
Rice Base
- 1 cup extra long grain rice (jasmine rice or basmati rice)
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (divided)
Flavoring
- 3 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
- 1/2 lime (juice of)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (remaining)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a small or medium heavy pot with a tight fitted lid, combine the rice, water, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat until most of the water has evaporated and just skims the top of the rice.
- Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook undisturbed, without stirring or lifting the lid, for 15 minutes to allow it to absorb the water fully.
- Let Rice Rest: After cooking, shut off the heat and keep the pot covered for an additional 5 minutes. This step ensures the rice steams perfectly. Do not lift the lid during this resting period. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Mix in Flavorings: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, lime juice, the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, and the cooked rice. Toss everything together thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated and the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking and prevent steam from escaping.
- Do not lift the lid during cooking and resting time to keep the steam trapped for perfect fluffy rice.
- Jasmine or basmati rice works best here for a fragrant and separate grain texture.
- Adjust lime juice and cilantro amount according to your taste preference for tanginess and herbaceousness.
- This rice pairs well with Mexican dishes, grilled meats, beans, or as a base for burrito bowls.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
