Coconut Lime Rice (Quick and Easy Recipe)
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This coconut lime rice is bursting with flavor and will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. This zesty and aromatic dish is a true explosion of flavor, combining the nutty and sweet taste of coconut milk with the tangy and citrusy kick of fresh lime juice. And with the fluffy and tender texture of long-grain white rice, this is the perfect side dish for any meal.
I have to admit that I was was a bit skeptical of this recipe at first – I mean, who combines coconut, cilantro, and lime with rice, right? But to my surprise, this dish turned out to be absolutely delicious!
The creamy coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness to the dish, while the tangy lime juice gives it a refreshing twist. And the best part? It is so easy to make! The recipe calls for just a few basic ingredients, and the rice cooks up perfectly in no time at all.
Coconut Lime Rice has become a staple in our household, and I love how it adds a touch of tropical flavor to our meals. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish with some lettuce wraps or using it as a base for a stir-fry , rice bowl, or fajita bowl this recipe is always a hit with my family. It just goes to show that sometimes the most unexpected flavor combinations can turn out to be the most delicious.
Related: What To Serve With Lettuce Wraps
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Recipe Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this Cilantro Coconut Lime Rice Recipe
How to make Cilantro Coconut Lime Rice: Step by Step
Here are quick visual instructions. Be sure to check out the full instructions with exact ingredients in the recipe card below.
Step 1: Add the rice, coconut milk, water, and salt to a large skillet. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cover and reduce heat to low.
Step 2: Cook for 12-15 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and keep covered for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Fluff with fork and add lime juice and cilantro.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Rinse the Rice: It’s important to rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and ensures that the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t become too sticky.
- Bring to a Slow Boil: then reduce heat: After adding the rice and liquid to the skillet, bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with the lid, and let it simmer. This gentle heat allows the rice to absorb the flavors and cook evenly.
- Avoid Peeking: Once the rice is simmering, resist the urge to lift the lid and peek. Keeping the lid on helps trap the steam and heat, which is essential for properly cooking the rice.
- Taste and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to taste the rice and adjust the flavors as needed. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a touch of sweetener. If you want it tangier, squeeze in a bit more lime juice. Cooking is all about personal preference, so feel free to make it your own.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Once cooled, transfer the rice to airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure the containers are tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture from getting in. Coconut lime rice can be refrigerated for up to 4 to 5 days..
- Freezing: Allow the rice to cool completely at room temperature. Then, divide it into individual portions and store them in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags, removing any excess air. Label and date each container before placing them flat in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
- Reheating: You can reheat in the microwave by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe container with a few drops of water or coconut milk, covering it, and heating on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also reheat it on the stovetop in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk, and stirring until heated through.
Additions and Substitutions
SUBSTITUTIONS
Rice: Instead of long grain rice, you can use jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even brown rice. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you choose.
Lime: If you’re out of fresh limes, you can use bottled lime juice as a substitute in a pinch. You can use lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
Water: Instead of water, you can use vegetable broth or chicken broth to cook the rice. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
ADDITIONS
Lime Zest: For an extra citrusy kick, you can add some lime zest to the rice mixture. Simply grate the outer green part of the lime peel.
Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can add an extra crunch and coconut flavor to the rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can make coconut lime rice ahead of time. Cook and cool the rice, then store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of liquid if needed to restore moisture
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Coconut rice is a very versatile and simple side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It complements dishes like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a simple stir fry. It is also perfect for burrito bowls. The options are endless!
Absolutely! The chopped cilantro can be omitted if you’re not a fan or don’t have it on hand. You can also substitute it with other fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or mint, based on your preference.
My Favorite
Side Dish Recipes
Coconut Lime Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 cup unsweetened full fat coconut milk
- 1.5 cups water
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 lime juiced
- 1/2 cup cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Add the first 4 ingredients to the skillet. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cover and reduce heat to low.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and keep covered for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with fork and add lime juice and cilantro.
- Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Rice Texture: The cooking time mentioned in the recipe yields a slightly fluffy and separate rice texture. If you prefer a stickier rice, you can increase the amount of water or coconut milk and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Lime Juice Adjustment: The amount of lime juice can be adjusted according to your personal taste preference. Start with the juice of one lime and add more if desired. Remember, lime juice adds acidity and tanginess to the rice, so adjust accordingly.
- Resting Time: It’s crucial to allow the rice to rest for 10 minutes after cooking and before fluffing with a fork. This resting period allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and results in a better texture.
Nutrition
The nutritional details for recipes are estimated using MyFitnessPal and can vary with different products, measurement accuracy, and source reliability. We aim to provide accurate information but cannot guarantee the precise accuracy of the nutritional data