Cilantro Lime Rice

Ingredients

• 1 cup Long-grain white rice
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1/4 cup Onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Lime zest
• 2 tablespoons Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1/2 cup Chicken broth (optional) (replace some water for richer flavor)
• 1 leaf Bay leaf (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent stickiness.

2. 2

   Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic and cumin and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add the rinsed rice, water (and optional chicken broth), bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.

5. 5

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

6. 6

   Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.

7. 7

   Remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and chopped fresh cilantro.

8. 8

   Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.

Recipe Variations

• →Try adding different herbs for variety.
• →Substitute ingredients based on dietary needs.