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Homemade Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice (Copycat) recipe photo

Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice (Copycat)

This Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice is a zesty, fluffy side dish that elevates any meal with its vibrant flavors!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups basmati rice (unrinsed, or any long-grain white rice, rinsed)
  • 1 piece bay leaf
  • to taste Salt
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (or rice bran oil, optional)
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro (or omit or substitute parsley)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Fork

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Start by rinsing the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 4 cups of water, and the bay leaf. Add a pinch of salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking!
  4. After the rice has cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  5. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, lemon juice, and chopped cilantro. Pour this mixture over the fluffed rice and gently fold it in until the rice is evenly coated.
  6. Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with more salt, lime juice, or cilantro as desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Always rinse your rice to remove excess starch, which prevents it from becoming gummy.
  • Letting the rice rest after cooking helps it steam and finish cooking evenly.
  • Fresh herbs are key; using fresh cilantro or parsley will significantly enhance the flavor.
  • Adjust the acidity to your liking; you can add more lime or lemon juice to suit your taste.