Coriander Lime Rice

Coriander Lime Rice is a wonderfully simple yet flavourful side dish that complements almost any meal. With its refreshing lime zest and fragrant coriander, it adds a burst of freshness to everything from chicken and seafood to beef and curry. This quick recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick accompaniment to more elaborate dishes.

Table of Contents

• Ingredient Breakdown
• How to Make Coriander Lime Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Versatility: Pairing Coriander Lime Rice with Different Dishes
• More Recipes You Might Like

Ingredient Breakdown

• White basmati rice: Fragrant, long-grain rice that cooks up fluffy and pairs well with bold flavours.
• Olive oil: Adds richness to the rice while helping to toast the grains for extra flavour.
• Chicken or vegetable stock: Provides a savoury base for cooking the rice, infusing it with flavour.
• Fresh lime: Both zest and juice are used to add a tangy, aromatic brightness that lifts the rice.
• Fresh coriander: Brings a fresh, slightly citrusy flavour that complements the lime perfectly.
• Sea salt: Enhances the natural flavours while balancing the tang of the lime.

How to Make Coriander Lime Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making Coriander Lime Rice couldn’t be easier. The process involves a few simple steps, but the result is a rice dish that tastes as if it’s been carefully crafted. Let’s break it down:

Toasting the Rice: The Key to Extra Flavour

Start by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the rice and cook, stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes. The aim here is to toast the rice lightly. As the rice heats up, the grains will begin to look slightly translucent. This process releases a nutty aroma and enhances the flavour of the rice. It’s a simple but essential step in making the coriander lime rice stand out.

Simmering the Rice: Infusing the Flavours

After toasting the rice, add your choice of chicken or vegetable stock to the pan. The stock not only helps to cook the rice but also imparts depth of flavour. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt, about ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon, depending on your preference. Stir to dissolve the salt. The key here is to ensure the cooking liquid is as well-seasoned as you want the final dish to taste. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as needed. Once you add the stock, bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for about 12 minutes. This gentle cooking allows the rice to absorb the flavours and results in perfectly cooked grains.

Finishing Touches: Lime and Coriander for a Fresh Kick

Once the rice is done cooking, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to firm up and become fluffy. After the rice has rested, use a fork to fluff it gently. Now, it’s time to add the bright flavours that will elevate this dish: freshly chopped coriander and lime juice. The coriander adds a fresh, herbaceous note, while the lime juice brings a tangy zing that balances the savouriness of the stock. Stir the lime juice and coriander into the rice, adjusting the seasoning to taste. If you want a more pronounced lime flavour, feel free to add more juice or zest. Serve your coriander lime rice warm and enjoy!

Versatility: Pairing Coriander Lime Rice with Different Dishes

One of the best things about Coriander Lime Rice is how adaptable it is. It can easily be paired with many main dishes, from simple grilled meats to complex curries. For instance, if you’re serving it with a fresh, citrusy chicken fajita bowl, the rice adds a gentle contrast to the spiced chicken and tangy salsa. Similarly, it works wonderfully with seafood, where its fresh flavours help bring out the natural sweetness of the fish.

Coriander Lime Rice is also a fantastic side for curries. The acidity from the lime helps to cut through the richness of creamy curries. On the other hand, the coriander ties into the spices, creating a well-rounded flavour profile. Even if you’re serving it alongside something as simple as grilled vegetables, this rice transforms an everyday meal into something more exciting.

For those looking to make a quick and easy meal with minimal effort, coriander lime rice also works great as a base for burrito bowls, veggie bowls, or even as a side for tacos. The versatility of this dish is truly endless, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser for both vegan and non-vegan eaters alike.

More Recipes You Might Like

If you’ve enjoyed the flavour profiles in this Coriander Lime Rice, here are some more bold, bright and punchy recipes for you to try:

• Spicy Coriander Chicken: Tender chicken marinated in a delicious combination of fresh coriander, garlic, scotch bonnet, sherry vinegar, honey and spices, then roasted until juicy and caramelised. It’s incredibly tasty, easy to prepare and packs a huge flavour punch.
• Coconut Coriander Chicken: If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with fresh, aromatic flavours, this dish is a must-try. The combination of coconut milk, coriander, lemongrass, and ginger creates a marinade that transforms simple chicken thighs into a juicy, fragrant delight. 
• Grilled Corn with Chilli Lime Butter: Perfectly grilled corn on the cob slathered in chilli lime butter. Need I say more?
• Sweet Chilli Lime Prawns: There are few dishes that perfectly balance sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours, but this dish achieves this balance effortlessly. With just four ingredients, it’s not only packed with flavour, but it’s also incredibly simple. 
• Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce: My take on pla kapong neung manao, an incredibly popular Thai dish consisting of steamed fish served with a bright, punchy sauce made with lots of lime, garlic, chillies, fish sauce and other fragrant aromatics. 
• Black Garlic Honey Lime Salmon: The perfect combination of savoury, sweet and umami. Black garlic is made by ageing regular white garlic, which gives it a delicious sweet and savoury taste. Combine it with lime and honey and you’ve got yourself a flavour bomb of a marinade!

See how I make all these recipes and more over on my Instagram!