Cilantro lime rice is a popular and flavorful side dish that is commonly served in Spanish and Latin American cuisine. This fragrant dish is made with simple ingredients such as white rice, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and butter. It is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. In this recipe, we will share a step-by-step recipe for cilantro lime rice that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will result in a delicious and aromatic side dish.
Ingredients
- Long-grain white rice — 200 g.
- Water — 350 ml.
- Butter — 20 g.
- Salt — ¼ tsp.
- Fresh chopped cilantro — 50 g.
- Tablespoons fresh lime juice — 2 tbs.
- Zest of one lime — to taste.
How to make cilantro lime rice
Step 1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
Step 2. In a medium-sized saucepan, add the rice, water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
Step 4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Step 5. Fluff the rice with a fork and add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest. Mix until well combined.
Step 6. Serve the cilantro lime rice hot as a side dish with your favorite meal, for example spanish meatballs — albondigas.
Tips for cilantro lime rice
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and aromatic dish that will impress your family and friends.
- Rinse the rice thoroughly: Before cooking the rice, make sure to rinse it well in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This will remove any excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Use the right ratio of water to rice: To ensure that the rice cooks evenly and has a fluffy texture, use a ratio of 1 cup of rice to 1 3/4 cups of water.
- Let the rice sit after cooking: Once the rice has finished cooking, remove it from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid on. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and helps to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Fluff the rice with a fork: Before adding the cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and prevent clumping.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeño pepper or cayenne pepper to the dish.
Enjoy your meal!
