Coconut Milk Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

Introduction

Coconut Milk Cilantro Lime Rice is a fragrant and creamy side dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals. With bright lime and fresh cilantro adding a burst of flavor, this rice elevates simple dishes into something special.

Ingredients

• 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup basmati rice or long grain white rice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cool running water until the liquid runs clear, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Step 2: Shake the can of coconut milk well to mix evenly. Pour it into a medium pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Step 3: Add the rinsed and drained rice along with the salt to the boiling coconut milk. Stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, uncovered, for 5 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
6. Step 6: Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro until well combined. Serve warm with extra cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the rice briefly in the pot before adding coconut milk to enhance its nuttiness.
• Substitute fresh lime juice with lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use jasmine rice if you prefer a softer, stickier texture.

Storage

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to restore moisture if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

Yes, but full-fat coconut milk gives a creamier texture and richer flavor. Light coconut milk will result in a less creamy rice.

Do I need to rinse the rice?

Rinsing removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky, resulting in fluffy grains. It’s recommended for best texture.

Coconut Milk Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 117 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Coconut Milk Cilantro Lime Rice is a fragrant, creamy side dish that combines the tropical richness of coconut milk with the zesty brightness of lime and fresh cilantro. Perfectly cooked basmati rice absorbs the flavors, creating a deliciously aromatic accompaniment for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup basmati rice or long grain white rice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1–2 limes)
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Rinse rice: Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cool running water until the liquid runs clear, about 1-2 minutes, to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
2. Add coconut milk to pan: Shake the can of coconut milk well to mix it thoroughly. Pour it into a medium pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.
3. Cook rice: Once boiling, add the rinsed and drained rice along with the salt. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Rest rice: Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit uncovered for 5 minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring fluffy rice.
5. Fluff and add cilantro: Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains, then stir in the lime juice and finely chopped cilantro until evenly combined. Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional cilantro.

Notes

• Using full-fat coconut milk gives the rice a richer, creamier texture.
• Rinsing the rice thoroughly is essential to avoid sticky results.
• If you prefer a tangier flavor, adjust the lime juice to taste.
• This rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or can be used as a side in vegetarian bowls.
• Leftover rice can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Fusion

Keywords: coconut milk rice, cilantro lime rice, coconut rice, side dish, basmati rice, tropical rice