Cilantro lime rice {Arroz con cilantro}
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
6 cups of cilantro rice
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
South American, Fusion, Ecuadorian
Cilantro lime rice {Arroz con cilantro}
Description
Cilantro lime rice {Arroz con cilantro} starts with cooking long grain white rice in a base of sautéed onions and optional garlic, which adds savory depth to the rice. The rice is cooked with water and salt until tender yet firm, resembling an al dente texture. Once cooked, it is mixed with freshly chopped cilantro and lime juice, which lend a fresh, herbal, and citrusy flavor profile. The moisture and heat meld the flavors while keeping the rice fluffy.
This rice works well as a versatile side dish, brightening heavier or spicy main courses with its herbaceous and slightly tangy notes. It pairs naturally with grilled or sautéed meats, beans, and taco fillings.
Seasoning salt to taste after cooking is emphasized, with a tip on testing saltiness by tasting the cooking water once salted. Additional olive oil can be stirred in for extra richness if desired.
Ingredients
To cook Latin style white rice:
- 2 cups white rice long grain, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons of oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons onion finely chopped white
- 1 garlic finally chopped or minced- optional, clove
- 2 ¼ cups water adjust based on altitude (add an additional 1/4 cup of water if you aren't using long grain rice)
- salt to taste
For the cilantro rice:
- rice ~6 cups cooked
- 1 cilantro finely chopped, bunch
- lime adjust to taste, juice from 1-2 limes
Instructions
- Heat the oil or butter on medium low temperature in medium sized saucepan.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic, cook until the onions are translucent and soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the uncooked rice and stir it until it is well coated by the oil, add the water with a little bit of salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Let the water boil until it’s reduced and barely covers the rice, cover with a lid, reduce the temperature to low or simmer, and cook for about 20-25 minutes. The rice should be fully cooked, but firm and not sticky (think al dente). It will take longer to cook at higher altitudes.
- Mix the rice with the chopped cilantro and lime juice, taste and add additional salt if needed. Can also add a bit of olive oil if desired.
Notes
- Season the water with salt before cooking and taste it to get the right salt level for the rice.
- Use fresh cilantro and fresh lime juice to achieve vibrant flavor.
- Adjust lime juice and salt after mixing with the rice to suit your preference.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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