Cilantro rice, with its vibrant green hue and zesty aroma, is a versatile and delicious staple in many cuisines. Its bright, herbaceous flavors can elevate any dish, from tacos and burritos to soups and salads. I used it in my Fried Albóngdigas Bowl and it was an instant favorite.
I’ve had the pleasure of experimenting with cilantro rice in two distinct ways: the classic stovetop method and a modern twist using a rice cooker. Both approaches yield a flavorful and satisfying result, each with its own unique charm. Personally, I love the rice cooker method because the brightness of the cilantro shines through.
How to Make Stove Top Cilantro Rice
- Brown the rice by sautéing it in olive oil. Stir in the garlic.
2. Add chicken stock, salt and lime juice. Simmer covered and on low for 15 minutes.
3. After rice has rested stir in lime zest, cilantro and kosher salt to taste.
How to Make Rice Cooker Cilantro Rice
- Add water, rice, olive oil and salt to rice cooker. Turn it on the appropriate setting to cook white rice.
2. When done stir in cilantro, lime juice, lime zest and kosher salt to taste.
The traditional stovetop method involves simmering rice in a fragrant broth infused with garlic and lime juice. The additional browning of the rice in olive oil provides a more complex flavor profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a deeper depth of taste. This method allows for greater control over the cooking process, ensuring that the rice reaches the perfect texture.
In contrast, the rice cooker method offers a hands-off approach to cooking. Simply combine rice, water, olive oil and salt in the cooker, and let it do its magic. When the rice is done the rest of the ingredients are simply stirred in. This method is ideal for busy individuals or those who prefer a simpler cooking process.
Regardless of which method you choose, cilantro rice is a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. Its bright green color and zesty flavor make it a visually appealing and flavorful accompaniment to any meal.
Cilantro Rice Variations
Rice – This recipe can be adapted to use a variety of rice types, including jasmine, basmati, brown, and long-grain rice. Check the cooking times for specific rice varieties.
Spicy – For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños with the garlic or red pepper flakes with the salt.
Low Carb – For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower or broccoli rice for the white rice.
Vegan – To make this recipe vegan, substitute vegetable broth or water for chicken broth.Sharing is fun……below is a Pinterest ready photo!
Cilantro Rice – 2 Ways
Description
A quick and easy recipe for flavorful cilantro rice, perfect for any meal. Choose from the traditional stovetop method or the convenient rice cooker option. Enjoy the zesty combination of cilantro, lime, and rice in this versatile dish.
Cilantro Rice (Traditional Method) Ingredients
Cilantro Rice (Rice Cooker Method-Simple Way) Ingredients
Cilantro Rice (Traditional Method) Instructions
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Wash the rice until the water rinses clear.
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Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the washed rice and stir occasionally until the oil is absorbed. Once the rice begins to brown, add the garlic.
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Next, stir in the chicken broth, salt and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered for 15 minutes.
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After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the heat and let the rice sit undisturbed for 10 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork.
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Drizzle the lime juice over the rice. Stir in the lime zest and chopped cilantro. Season with kosher salt to taste.
Cilantro Rice (Rice Cooker Method-Simple Way) Instructions
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Wash the rice until the water rinses clear.
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Add the washed rice, water, olive oil and salt to the rice cooker. Set to cook for white rice according to your rice cooker.
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When the rice cooker is done drizzle the lime juice over the rice. Stir in the lime zest and chopped cilantro. Season with kosher salt to taste.
