Go Back
Perfect Cilantro Lime Rice
Alyssa

Perfect Cilantro Lime Rice

Discover the perfect cilantro lime rice recipe – fluffy, tangy, and fresh. Ideal as a side for tacos, burritos, and Mexican-inspired dishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice: This serves as the base for the dish providing a fluffy texture. Long-grain rice is preferred as it cooks evenly and separates nicely.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing olive oil adds a healthy fat option while butter brings a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the dish.
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion: Adding onion imparts a sweet and savory flavor to the rice making it more aromatic and complex.
  • 2 tsp minced garlic: Garlic adds depth and a characteristic pungency that works beautifully with cilantro and lime.
  • 2 ¼ cups vegetable or chicken broth: Using broth instead of water significantly boosts the flavor making the rice more savory. Choose low-sodium options for better control over salt levels.
  • ¼ tsp fine sea salt to taste: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish and balances the acidity from the lime.
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice: This ingredient is essential for the refreshing taste that defines cilantro lime rice giving it a tangy kick.
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh zesty flavor and vibrant color, making the dish inviting to enjoy.

Method
 

  1. Rinse the rice: Start by rinsing 1 ½ cups of long-grain white rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. Drain well.
  2. Cook the rice and onion: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp of olive oil or butter. Once heated, add the rinsed rice and ½ cup of finely chopped onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until the rice turns slightly brighter in color.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in 2 tsp minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to brown. This infuses the rice with aromatic flavors.
  4. Add broth and seasoning: Pour in 2 ¼ cups of vegetable or chicken broth and season with ¼ tsp fine sea salt. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
  5. Simmer the rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice cook for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure proper steaming.
  6. Rest the rice: After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for another 10 minutes to allow the rice to finish cooking in its steam.
  7. Check doneness: After resting, check the rice. If it's not fully tender or looks too dry, add a little more broth or water, cover, and cook for an additional few minutes until fully cooked.
  8. Fluff the rice: Finally, fluff the cooked rice with a fork and mix in 3 tbsp of fresh lime juice and 1 cup of chopped fresh cilantro. This step adds the signature flavor and freshness to the dish.