Easy Homemade Coconut Lime Rice with Fresh Cilantro

January 15, 2025

Ready to elevate your rice game? This Easy Homemade Coconut Lime Rice with Fresh Cilantro is a tropical getaway in a bowl! Creamy coconut, zesty lime, and a pop of fresh cilantro come together for a side dish so good, it might just steal the show. Let’s get cooking!

5.0 out of 5 (3 ratings)

Picture this: you’re sitting under swaying palm trees, a slight sea breeze ruffling your hair, and the sweet, tangy aroma of tropical deliciousness wafting from your plate. That’s exactly the vibe this Easy Homemade Coconut Lime Rice with Fresh Cilantro brings to your table! It’s a simple side dish that feels like a mini vacation in every bite. Whether you’re spicing up a weeknight dinner or looking for something breezy and refreshing to pair with grilled shrimp or curry, this rice has your back. Trust me, once you take that first spoonful, you’ll be transported straight to the tropics!

Easy Homemade Coconut Lime Rice with Fresh Cilantro Recipe

What makes this recipe so special, you ask? Oh, let me count the ways. First, there’s the creamy, luscious coconut milk, which turns ordinary rice into something velvety and rich. Then, the zest and juice of fresh lime swoop in to brighten things up with a zippy tang that cuts through the richness beautifully. And don’t forget the cilantro—it’s like confetti sprinkled on top, adding a fresh, aromatic finish that ties it all together. The flavor trifecta of coconut, lime, and cilantro is a match made in culinary heaven, creating a side dish that’s so much more than just…well, rice.

Now, let me share some little nuggets of wisdom to ensure your coconut lime rice is the best it can be. First, rinse your rice well before cooking—it removes excess starch and gives you fluffy results. When you add the coconut milk to the pot, make sure it's well stirred so there are no pesky clumps. A pinch of salt and a hint of sugar in the mix will bring out the flavors even more—don’t skip that step! And when juicing limes, roll them firmly on the counter with your palm first; you’ll get every last drop of liquid sunshine out of them. Oh, and if you’re new to cooking with fresh cilantro, don’t let the stems go to waste—they’re flavorful and can be chopped up finely along with the leaves.

So, are you ready to take your rice game up a notch? Coconut lime rice pairs beautifully with just about anything, from spicy curry dishes to grilled fish, or even a simple roasted chicken. Want to make it your own? Add in some toasted shredded coconut for extra texture or a pinch of red chili flakes for a little heat. You could even toss in some diced mango for a fun, fruity twist! Whatever you do, just promise me you’ll give this recipe a try. It’s fun, easy, and guaranteed to bring a burst of tropical sunshine to your dining table. Let me know how you love it—I’m already cheering you on from my virtual kitchen!

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Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Asian

Ingredients

•1 cup jasmine rice
•1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
•1 cup water
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•1 tablespoon lime zest (about 1 lime)
•1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
•2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir well.
3
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
5
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to settle.
6
Fluff the rice with a fork and gently mix in the lime zest, lime juice, and fresh cilantro.
7
Serve warm as a side dish or alongside your favorite main course.

Nutrition Information

Calories

250 calories

Protein

Carbs

35g

Fat

10g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of rice instead of jasmine rice?

A: Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with other types of long-grain white rice, such as basmati. However, cooking times and liquid ratios may vary slightly. For example, basmati rice might require less liquid and a slightly shorter cooking time. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice, as they have a different texture and may not work well with this recipe.

Q: What if I don't have coconut milk? Can I use a substitute?

A: If you don't have coconut milk, you can substitute it with an equal amount of regular milk or unsweetened almond milk, but the dish will lack the rich coconut flavor. To mimic the flavor, you can add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the liquid. Another option is to use canned coconut cream diluted with water to match the consistency of coconut milk.

Q: How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan?

A: To prevent sticking, make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Also, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution. Stir the rice mixture gently before covering it to make sure nothing is stuck to the bottom. Avoid opening the lid or stirring the rice while it cooks, as this can disrupt the cooking process.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

A: This recipe is already vegan and gluten-free as written, provided that the coconut milk you use is pure and has no added ingredients containing gluten. Always check the label of your coconut milk to ensure it meets these requirements.

Q: How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

A: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a small amount of water over the rice and microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to restore moisture.

Q: Can I freeze coconut lime rice?

A: Yes, you can freeze this rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Q: What are some variations or serving suggestions for this recipe?

A: You can add additional flavor to the rice by mixing in sautéed garlic, ginger, or chopped scallions. For a heartier dish, stir in cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or roasted vegetables. This rice pairs beautifully with grilled fish, curry dishes, or spicy stir-fries. For a sweeter twist, you can omit the cilantro and add a teaspoon of sugar to enhance the coconut and lime flavors.

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