Turn a plain grain into the star of the meal with this fresh, zesty Coconut-Cilantro-Lime Rice.
How many of you cook your rice without even thinking about it? Say you’re making a curry, or you need a starchy side that isn’t potatoes. Is the rice cooker out of the closet and on the counter faster than you can say “jasmine?” Do you boil the rice in water and rely solely on salt for flavor? If so, then you really need to check out this recipe.
Unless you’ve breezed by the title of this recipe, you’ll know what makes this rice so good. It’s got lime, it’s got cilantro, and it’s got—coconut milk! That’s right, we don’t use only water for this one. Instead, the rice is cooked in a hot coconut milk bath. The result is a subtle creaminess that makes me wanna eat rice and only rice.
Want to breathe new life into your same old rice dish? Infuse your rice with the tasty trinity of coconut, cilantro, and lime.
Is Coconut-Cilantro-Lime Rice Healthy?
Jasmine rice (the type of rice used for this recipe) is high in carbs, so those on a keto diet may want to steer clear of this one. That said, this dish is a healthy option overall, especially when compared to other starchy side dishes, like French fries. And while it may not appeal to keto enthusiasts, it fits with vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Keto and Paleo dieters will want to substitute the rice with cauliflower rice if they’re dead set on making this recipe.
Can I Use Different Types Of Rice?
You sure can. I should point out, though, that we use jasmine rice for its fragrance and its stickiness once cooked. It’s also a long grain, so it stands up to the cooking process (with short grains, you risk your dish turning to mush). However, if you want to use brown jasmine rice, which retains the bran and germ layers and makes for a healthier dish, then please do. Beyond jasmine, you have as options basmati rice (a slightly nuttier flavor than jasmine), wild rice (earthier, chewier, and high in protein), and quinoa, which isn’t rice but is rich in protein and called upon regularly as a rice substitute.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Let the rice cool completely, then store in an airtight container or resealable bag (be sure to remove as much air as possible). It should keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the rice for up to 3 months. Just follow the same steps, provided the resealable bag is freezer-safe. I tend to flatten my bags of rice for easier storage. Before reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then it’s up to you whether you warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
As much as I like the idea of eating nothing but this rice dish for dinner, you should probably prepare some other things. One of those things could be mango curry steak, which complements your lime with mango. Or if you’re a pescatarian, this Cilantro-Lime Shrimp dish will fit in nicely, featuring two of the ingredients used in your rice. You can also try this Thai Pineapple Paleo Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk, again pairing the rice with dishes with a similar flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups jasmine rice rinsed and drained
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 cup cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Pour the rice into a large pot, along with the coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir together then cover with a lid. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 15 minutes, until the liquid has evaporated. Remove from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Add the cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice into the pot.
- Mix well.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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