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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
