Are you a fan of rice bowls, burritos, and Mexican dishes ? If you’re reading this post, chances are you are! One of the key components that take these dishes from good to great is the rice. And when it comes to flavorful rice that pairs perfectly with your favorite meals, cilantro lime rice is the way to go.
In this post, you’ll learn everything you need to know about cilantro lime rice – what it is, how to make it, and some variations that you can try out in your own kitchen.
What is Cilantro Lime Rice?
Cilantro lime rice is a flavorful side dish made by cooking rice with cilantro, lime juice, and zest. This delicious rice variety is often used in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes, such as burrito bowls, tacos, and fajitas.
Cilantro lime rice is known for its aromatic and citrusy taste, which is why it’s so popular among those who crave flavorful food. The combination of cilantro and lime juice gives the rice a tangy, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with a range of Mexican-inspired dishes.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice
Making cilantro lime rice is easy and requires minimal ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious rice variety at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of Jasmine rice (or any other type of rice you prefer)
- 3 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of lime zest
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, add the rice, water, olive oil, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot with a lid.
- Let the rice cook for about 18-20 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and add the lime juice, lime zest, and cilantro.
- Mix everything together until the rice is evenly flavored and the ingredients are well-combined.
Voila! Your cilantro lime rice is ready to be served alongside your favorite Mexican dish.
Variations of Cilantro Lime Rice
Now that you know how to make the classic version of cilantro lime rice, you can experiment with different variations to switch things up or cater to your dietary needs. Here are some variations that you can try:
- Garlic Lime Rice:Add garlic to your cilantro lime rice recipe for an extra kick of flavor. Simply saute some minced garlic in the olive oil before adding the rice and water.
- Cilantro Lime Brown Rice:If you’re looking to make a healthier version of cilantro lime rice, switch out white rice for brown rice. Brown rice is a nutrient-dense whole grain that is high in fiber, which can help you stay fuller for longer.
- Lime Rice Without Cilantro:If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can still enjoy the tangy flavor of lime rice by omitting the cilantro and adding more lime juice and zest for a stronger lime flavor.
- What Else Can I Add to White Rice for Flavor?:Get creative and add your own twist to cilantro lime rice. Try adding diced tomatoes, jalapenos, diced onions, or black beans for added flavor and texture.
Is Cilantro Lime Rice Good For You?
Cilantro lime rice is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that is healthy and good for you. Rice is a staple food in many cultures, and it provides a significant source of carbohydrates and fiber, which are essential for providing energy and keeping your digestive system healthy.
Cilantro is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining optimal health and wellbeing. Lime juice is also high in vitamin C, which helps support a healthy immune system.
What About the White Rice at Chipotle?
If you’re a fan of the cilantro lime rice at Chipotle, you may be wondering if they use a special type of rice. The answer is no, they use regular white rice that has been cooked with cilantro and lime juice, just like our recipe above.
What is the Best Rice for Burritos?
When it comes to making burritos, the type of rice you use can make a big difference. Jasmine rice, which is the same type of rice used in our cilantro lime rice recipe, is a popular choice for burritos due to its soft and fluffy texture.
Other types of rice that you can use for burritos include long-grain white rice, brown rice, and Mexican rice.
Conclusion
Cilantro lime rice is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether you’re making burrito bowls, tacos, or fajitas, cilantro lime rice is the perfect accompaniment to your dish. It’s healthy, nutritious, and versatile, making it a staple recipe in any kitchen.
Try out our recipe or variations above to find the perfect version of cilantro lime rice that you love.