Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups Jasmine or Basmati Rice, rinsed thoroughly
- 2 ½ cups Water or Low-Sodium Stock
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter or Neutral Oil
- 1 cup, packed Fresh Cilantro (Coriander), finely chopped
- Zest and juice of 2 large Fresh Limes (approx. 3-4 tbsp juice)
- ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder (Optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the Rice: Place the measured rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs completely clear. Drain well to remove excess starch.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water or stock, and salt.
- Boil: Bring the mixture to a rapid boil over medium-high heat, uncovered. Allow it to boil vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Cover and Reduce: Immediately reduce the heat to the absolute lowest setting. Cover the pan tightly with the lid.
- Steam: Cook undisturbed for exactly 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
- Rest: Remove the pan from the heat (keeping the lid on) and let it rest for 10 minutes. This is critical for achieving perfectly separate grains.
- Prep the Zest and Juice: While the rice rests, zest both limes, ensuring you only grab the green part. Squeeze the limes to yield approximately 3–4 tablespoons of juice. Finely chop the cilantro.
- Fluff: Remove the lid. Use a large fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains from the bottom up.
- Combine Finishers: Add the butter or oil, lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and garlic powder (if using) to the pot of fluffed rice.
- Fold Gently: Using the fork, fold the flavourings through the rice until evenly distributed. Avoid stirring vigorously. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more salt or lime juice, if necessary).
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot as a base for tacos, burritos, or seafood dishes.