Cilantro Lime Rice Delight (Printable format)

Tender rice infused with fresh cilantro and bright lime flavors, perfect to complement grilled meals.

# List of ingredients:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings

05 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (1 lime)
07 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

# How to make it:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
02 - Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly translucent.
03 - Add water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
04 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
05 - Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in butter if using, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
06 - Serve warm alongside tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It transforms plain rice into something people actually remember and request again.
  • The lime and cilantro wake up your whole plate without any real effort.
  • It comes together in the time it takes to cook rice, so theres no extra fuss or waiting.
02 -
  • Rinsing the rice is the one step you can't skip or the texture will be gummy and disappointing.
  • Add the lime and cilantro after cooking, not before, or the heat will kill the bright flavor you're going for.
  • If you lift the lid while the rice is simmering, steam escapes and the rice cooks unevenly.
03 -
  • Use day-old rice if you're turning leftovers into fried rice, because the drier texture works better in a hot pan.
  • Zest the lime before you juice it, because it's nearly impossible to zest a lime after you've already cut it in half.
  • Taste the rice before serving and adjust the lime and salt, because every lime is different and some are more tart than others.
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