This Cilantro Lime Instant Pot Rice tastes just like the one you get at Chipotle and is only 3 ingredients! Ready in 12 minutes; this is a perfect, easy to make, healthy side dish!
I have to admit it, I am a BIG chipotle lover. I don’t eat out as much because I believe I can replicate everything at home by being more cost efficient and creating healthier versions but if there is one thing I crave all the time is a chipotle burrito bowl.
I have a set order at chipotle and you guessed it, I always get the cilantro lime rice. So of course I had to try my hand at making it at home but a trendier instant pot version.I first tried my hand at making Instant Pot coconut rice, and I figured you could also make rice of the cilantro lime variety.
The cilantro lime rice is simply rice with a couple of added ingredients to give it a tangy flavor. It is low fat and a great vegan option that can be eaten as a side dish or even as a main.
You’ll love this recipe because:
- A great side or main dish
- Goes very well with any Mexican dish
- Super easy to make
- Has only 3 ingredients
- Zingy and flavorful
How to make this recipe in a rice cooker or stove top?
If you don’t have an instant pot, don’t worry. You can make this same recipe in either a rice cooker or a stove top with the same ingredients. For both the stove top and the cooker you would first cook the rice and then add the cilantro, lime juice and salt. After that give it a little fluff with a fork and it’s ready to be served!
Lime juice for a tang
I am all about the zingy, tangy goodness that comes with lime juice in our rice! However, if you want to forgo the tang, but still want that fresh lime flavor, you can add a little bit of lime zest to the rice instead and leave out the juice for a milder flavor.
Tip: Don’t use bottled lime juice, it really changes the flavor!
FAQs & tips
To store: If you make a big pot of this recipe the chances are you are going to be left with some leftovers. The best way to store this rice is to put it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It should be good to consume for 4-5 days. All you have to do when you want to consume is heat it in the microwave and serve.
To freeze: This rice can be frozen for 2-3 months. The best way to store it is to put it in a zip lock bag or any freezer friendly utensil. Whenever you want to eat it I would recommend thawing it for a few hours and heating it either on a stove top or in the microwave.
This really depends on what kind of rice you and your family prefer! I love using jasmine rice for this recipe, however you could use regular long grain white rice or basmati rice if you wish!
For this recipe, the “rice” setting will decide on a cook time for your rice, removing the guesswork. It’s usually under 10 minutes, not including the time it will take to do a natural steam release.
The main reason to rinse your rice before cooking is to remove excess starch from the grains. This will prevent the rice from becoming “gummy” as they cook, and the result will be better cooked, fluffy rice!
This lime cilantro rice is plant based and perfect if you are on a vegan or gluten free diet. It is also a great source of carbs and low in fat.
Serving suggestion
This particular recipe works as a great side dish with any mexican recipe. I particularly love pairing it up with either the Mexican Stuffed Zucchini with Avocado Salsa or as a side dish with some cheesy, saucy Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas. It is also a great base if you are making a copycat chipotle burrito bowl at home.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped cilantro lightly-packed
- 3 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice typically from 2 large limes
Instructions
- Place the uncooked rice in a mesh strainer and run under cold water until the water runs clear, then lightly shake the rice in the strainer to remove any excess water. Place into the liner of the Instant Pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add in the water and stir to combine. Cover the Instant Pot, make sure the lid is locked and the vent is set to "Sealed." Press the "Rice" button and, if necessary, choose your rice type. Press "Start."
- Once cooked, allow the Instant Pot to steam release naturally. Open the lid only when the vent button on the lid drops down.
- Fluff the rice with a fork. Gently stir in the cilantro and fresh lime juice, and season to taste with salt.
- Serve warm.
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