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Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

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4.8 from 52 reviews

A zesty and fragrant Cilantro Lime Rice recipe that is fluffy, flavorful, and perfect as a side dish for many meals. Made with basmati rice cooked in chicken or vegetable stock, then brightened with fresh lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro.

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)

Flavorings

  • 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 thoroughly several times by gently scrubbing with your fingertips to remove excess starch and any dirt.
  2. Sauté rice: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir continuously until the rice grains just begin to turn slightly translucent but do not brown.
  3. Add stock and cook: Add 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock to the rice, scraping any rice sticking to the pan into the liquid. Increase heat to bring to a boil over medium heat.
  4. Simmer rice: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered until liquid level drops just below the surface of the rice, then reduce heat to the lowest setting and cover with a lid. Simmer gently for about 12 minutes without stirring.
  5. Rest the rice: Remove the pan from heat and let the rice sit, covered and undisturbed, for 5 to 10 minutes to finish steaming and become fluffy.
  6. Finish with flavorings: Remove lid, add butter, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to combine. Season with additional salt if needed.
  7. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dishes.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice is essential to prevent clumping and achieve fluffy texture.
  • Using chicken or vegetable stock instead of water enhances flavor.
  • Do not stir rice while cooking to avoid breaking the grains and releasing starch.
  • Adjust salt to taste after adding lime and cilantro for best balance.
  • Butter is optional but recommended for richness.
  • Allowing rice to rest covered after cooking ensures perfect fluffiness by steaming through.

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