Merken Experience the vibrant flavors of our Cilantro Lime Rice, an aromatic and fluffy side dish infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice. This Mexican-inspired recipe is the perfect accompaniment for your favorite Asian-inspired dishes, tacos, or grilled proteins, bringing a bright and citrusy lift to any plate.
Merken Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a festive gathering, this rice dish is incredibly versatile. By following a few simple steps, you can transform pantry staples like long-grain white rice into a savory and refreshing masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as Basmati or Jasmine)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Step 2: Sauté the garlic
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Toast the rice
- Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains thoroughly with the oil.
- Step 4: Simmer
- Pour in the water and add the salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Step 5: Rest
- Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
- Step 6: Season
- Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the fresh lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
- Step 7: Final Touch
- Taste and adjust the salt or lime juice as needed. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best texture, always use a fine-mesh sieve for rinsing the rice. A medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid is essential for maintaining the steam necessary for fluffy grains. Using a fork rather than a spoon to fluff the rice prevents the grains from becoming mushy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For those who enjoy a bit of warmth, add a pinch of cumin or a dash of green chili to the rice during the simmering process. You can also customize the aromatics by using different types of long-grain rice like Jasmine or Basmati depending on your preference.
Serviervorschläge
This Cilantro Lime Rice pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, zesty tacos, or roasted seasonal vegetables. It serves as a cooling balance to spicy dishes and acts as a flavorful base for burrito bowls.
Merken Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated side dish that brings a touch of freshness to every bite. With its perfect balance of herbs and citrus, it is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Fragen & Antworten zum Rezept
- → Welche Reissorte eignet sich am besten?
Basmati oder Jasminreis sind ideal, da sie durch ihre lange Kornform besonders fluffig gelingen. Die lockere Struktur nimmt die Aromen von Koriander und Limette hervorragend auf.
- → Kann ich Koriander durch andere Kräuter ersetzen?
Frische Petersilie oder Dill sind geeignete Alternativen, wenn Ihnen der Geschmack von Koriander zu intensiv ist. Die Kräuter sollten erst nach dem Garen unter den Reis gehoben werden.
- → Wie lagere ich die Reste?
Der aromatisierte Reis hält sich verschlossen im Kühlschrank bis zu drei Tage. Vor dem Servieren kurz in der Pfanne erhitzen oder in der Mikrowelle aufwärmen.
- → Ist dieses Gericht vorkochbar?
Ja, der Reis kann am Vortag zubereitet werden. Lassen Sie ihn vollständig abkühlen, bevor Sie ihn im Kühlschrank lagern. Vor dem Servieren sanft erwärmen und eventuell mit etwas frischer Limette nachwürzen.
- → Welche Gerichte passen dazu?
Diese Beilage harmoniert hervorragend mit Tacos, Burritos, Fajitas, gegrilltem Hähnchen, Fisch oder geröstetem Gemüse. Die frische Limettennote bildet einen schönen Kontrast zu würzigen Hauptgerichten.