Mexican Food

My family loves Mexican flavors, so I’m making this easy rice cooker cilantro and lime rice on repeat. It’s a zesty twist on plain rice that pairs well with Mexican-inspired dishes.

Making this recipe in a rice cooker is super simple, trust me, we eat a lot of rice. Plus, there are several variations to keep the flavors fresh week after week.

Can I Use a Different Kind of Rice?

Yes, you can use different types of rice, but keep in mind that cooking times and water ratios may vary. Adjust the recipe accordingly based on the rice variety you choose.

Can I Make Cilantro and Lime Rice without a Rice Cooker?

Absolutely! You can cook the rice on the stovetop following package instructions for the specific type of rice you are using. Once cooked, proceed with the steps to add cilantro, lime, salt, and pepper.

Can I Adjust the Recipe for a Larger Crowd?

Simply double or triple the quantities of all the ingredients to accommodate a larger group. Ensure that your rice cooker can handle the increased volume. Otherwise, it could overflow making a big mess!

Can I Use Bottled Lime Juice Instead of Fresh Lime Juice?

While fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lime juice as a convenient alternative.

How to Make Cilantro and Lime Rice in a Rice Cooker

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati Rice
• 2 cups Water
• 4 tbsp Chopped Cilantro
• 2 tbsp Lime Juice
• 3/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Step 1 – Rinse Rice

Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

Step 2 – Add to Rice Cooker

In the rice cooker, add the rinsed basmati rice, lime juice and water. Close the lid, and start the rice cooker according to its instructions.

Step 3 – Chop Cilantro

While the rice is cooking, finely chop the cilantro.

Step 4 – Fluff Rice

Once the rice cooker indicates the rice is ready, open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 5 – Add Cilantro

Now add the cilantro to the fluffed rice.

Step 6 – Salt and Pepper

Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the rice. You can adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

Step 7 – Mix to Combine

Using a fork, gently mix the rice, cilantro, salt and pepper until everything is well combined.

Step 8 – Serve

Spoon the cilantro and lime rice into a serving dish. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired.

Storage

Allow the rice to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container and placing it in the refrigerator. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can make the rice soggy.

Consume the refrigerated rice within 3-4 days for the best quality.

While cilantro and lime rice can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze the cilantro and lime rice, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label it with the date, and consume within 1-2 months.

Tips for the Best Cilantro and Lime Rice

Here are a few tips to ensure your cilantro and lime rice comes out perfectly every time:

1. Use fresh cilantro and limes for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients contribute significantly to the overall taste of the dish.
2. Cooking times may vary depending on your rice cooker model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking basmati rice.
3. Taste the rice before serving, and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lime juice, salt, or pepper according to you preference.
4. If cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, try experimenting with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint. Each herb brings a unique twist to the dish.

Variations

With a few additional ingredients, this recipe can be varied to create whole new flavors. Fiesta rice and coconut cilantro lime rice are winners for my family.

Fiesta Rice

Add finely diced red bell peppers, corn kernels, and black beans to the rice for a colorful and festive twist. This variation is perfect for serving alongside Mexican-inspired dishes, and you know we love those!

Coconut Cilantro Lime Rice

Replace half the water with coconut milk for a tropical flavor. Then garnish the rice with shredded coconut and chopped fresh cilantro for an exotic pairing for seafood or curry dishes.

More Plant Based Side Dishes

If you enjoyed this rice cooker cilantro and lime rice recipe, you’ll love these simple, vegan side dishes too:

• Instant Pot Mexican Rice
• Oil-Free Potato Wedges
• Black Bean Corn Salad with Avocado
• Instant Pot Mexican Quinoa
• BBQ Cauliflower Bites