Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

Learn how to make this homemade cilantro lime rice with perfectly fluffy grains infused with fresh lime and aromatic cilantro. This easy baking recipe transforms basic rice into a restaurant-quality side dish with simple techniques for maximum flavor absorption. The best foolproof method for fragrant, zesty rice every time!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Serves:

4 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">250g jasmine rice (or basmati rice)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">480ml vegetable stock (or water)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml olive oil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 clove garlic, minced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">15g fresh cilantro, finely chopped</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 limes (zest and juice)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">5g salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2g black pepper</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 210 calories

🥑 Fat: 4 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 0.6 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 40 g

🍭 Sugar: 0 g

🍗 Protein: 3 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg

🧂 Sodium: 300 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Oven-safe baking dish with lid</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Fine mesh sieve or colander</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Microplane or zester</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This oven method ensures perfectly even cooking and prevents the bottom from scorching, which can happen on stovetops. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Place the rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear, about 1-2 minutes. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy during baking. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> In an oven-safe baking dish with a tight-fitting lid, combine the rinsed rice, vegetable stock, 15ml (1 tablespoon) of olive oil, minced garlic, and half the lime zest. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Cover the dish tightly with its lid or aluminum foil if your dish doesn't have a lid. The tight seal creates a steaming environment that's crucial for perfectly cooked rice with distinct, separate grains. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Don't peek during baking as releasing steam can disrupt the cooking process! </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> While the rice bakes, prepare the finishing mixture. In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, lime juice, remaining lime zest, chopped cilantro, salt and pepper. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Once the rice is cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and helps the grains firm up slightly for the perfect texture. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Uncover the rice carefully (watch out for steam!) and fluff gently with a fork to separate the grains. Pour the cilantro-lime mixture over the hot rice and fold it in gently with a fork. The heat from the freshly baked rice will help release the essential oils in the cilantro and lime zest, intensifying the flavors. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with additional fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges if desired. The rice should be fluffy with each grain distinct, fragrant with lime and cilantro, but not wet or mushy. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe?

The key ingredients for Cilantro Lime Rice include jasmine rice, vegetable stock, olive oil, garlic, fresh cilantro, limes (for both zest and juice), salt, and pepper. These simple ingredients combine to create a fragrant, zesty side dish.

How to cook Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Cilantro Lime Rice by rinsing jasmine rice until water runs clear, then baking it in the oven with vegetable stock and garlic. After baking for 18-20 minutes, let the rice rest before folding in a fresh mixture of lime juice, zest, olive oil, and chopped cilantro for a perfectly fluffy, flavourful side dish.

Why is baking rice better than cooking it on the stovetop?

Baking rice provides more even heat distribution, preventing the bottom from scorching as can happen on stovetops. The enclosed oven environment creates a consistent steaming effect, resulting in perfectly cooked, fluffy rice with distinct grains and no mushy spots.

Can I substitute the jasmine rice with another variety?

Yes, basmati rice makes an excellent substitute for jasmine rice in this recipe. For brown rice, increase cooking time by 15-20 minutes and liquid by 60ml. Avoid sticky or sushi rice varieties as they'll produce a texture that doesn't complement the lime and cilantro flavours well.

How long does lime and cilantro infused rice keep in the refrigerator?

This fragrant rice keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, sprinkle with a little water and microwave covered, or steam briefly. For best flavour, consider adding a small squeeze of fresh lime juice after reheating.

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