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Cafe Rio Rice


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A bright and fluffy rice dish with a buttery comfort and citrus lift from lime and herbs, perfect as a side or base for bowls.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 12 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of cumin or cayenne

Instructions

  1. Rinse and drain the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Finely chop cilantro and reserve some for garnish. Zest and juice the lime.
  3. In a medium saucepan, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
  4. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and toast gently for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the broth, lime zest, and salt, then bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and reduce heat to low.
  6. Cook for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and an extra tablespoon of butter.
  8. Serve immediately or cool for use in bowls and salads.

Notes

For a heartier version, layer under casseroles or mix with sautéed vegetables for added nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: rice, cafe rio, cilantro lime, side dish, vegetarian