Description
This Rice Cooker Cilantro Lime Rice is a foolproof side dish that’s bright, fresh, and incredibly easy to make. Simply cook basmati rice in your rice cooker with oil and salt, then stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice at the end. It’s the perfect accompaniment to Mexican-inspired meals, grilled proteins, or veggie bowls. Naturally vegan and gluten-free!
Ingredients
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
To Finish:
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 teaspoon lime zest for extra brightness
- 1 clove minced garlic for savory depth
- A pinch of cumin for warmth
Instructions
Place the basmati rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for about 30 seconds, gently stirring with your fingers. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up extra fluffy and light. Drain well.
Add the rinsed (or unrinsed) rice, water, olive oil, and salt directly to your rice cooker pot. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the salt and oil evenly.
Close the lid, turn on your rice cooker, and let it work its magic! Most rice cookers will automatically switch to “warm” when the rice is done — this usually takes about 15-20 minutes depending on your model.
Once the rice cooker signals it’s done, transfer the hot rice to a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains and releasing any steam. This step is KEY for light, fluffy rice!
Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and fresh lime juice. Fold gently with the fork until everything is evenly distributed and the rice looks bright and inviting.
This is your moment to make it perfect! Taste the rice and add more salt or lime juice if needed. Sometimes just a squeeze more lime makes all the difference!
Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately. This rice is best served fresh, when the cilantro is still bright green and the lime flavor is singing!
Notes
- Add a bay leaf to the rice cooker for subtle aromatic depth (just remember to remove it before serving!).
- Toast the rice first if you have a rice cooker with a sauté function — just add the oil and rice, stir for 2 minutes until fragrant, then add water and cook normally.
- Don’t lift the lid during cooking! Every time you peek, you release steam and mess with the cooking time.
- Chop cilantro at the last minute so it stays vibrant, fresh, and bright green.
- Common mistake to avoid: Adding the cilantro before cooking. The heat will turn it brown and dull — always add fresh herbs at the end!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Rice Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired