Irresistible Coconut Lime Rice Recipe for Tropical Bliss

Recipe By:
James Walker
Updated:

Coconut Lime Rice is like a tropical vacation for your taste buds. Imagine fluffy white rice, infused with creamy coconut milk, and a zesty squeeze of lime. The aroma wafts through the air, making you feel like you’re lounging on a beach with palm trees swaying in the breeze. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that transports you to paradise.

Picture this: It’s a sunny afternoon, and you’re prepping for a backyard barbecue. You want something that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or shrimp. Coconut Lime Rice pops into your mind, and suddenly, you’re no longer just cooking; you’re crafting a mini-escape right in your kitchen. Trust me, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds – and maybe even thirds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Coconut Lime Rice is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
  • The vibrant flavors of coconut and lime create a deliciously unique taste profile that will impress anyone who tries it
  • Its beautiful presentation adds a touch of elegance to any meal while remaining versatile enough to complement various dishes
  • This recipe is also perfect for meal prep; enjoy it warm or cold throughout the week!

I still remember the first time I served Coconut Lime Rice at my friend’s barbecue; the compliments poured in like rain on a hot summer day.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Jasmine Rice: I prefer jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with coconut milk.

  • Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for extra creaminess; it transforms ordinary rice into something magical.

  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds bright acidity; avoid bottled versions for the best flavor.

  • Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the coconut.

  • Cilantro (optional): Chopped cilantro adds freshness and color; it’s optional but highly recommended if you love herbs.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Here’s how we bring this tropical delight to life:

Prepare Your Rice: Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy rice.

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice with 1 cup of coconut milk and 1 cup of water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.

Simmer Away: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer gently for about 18-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.

Add Lime Zest & Juice: After cooking, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork before stirring in the zest and juice of one lime.

Garnish & Serve!: If using cilantro, fold in chopped leaves now for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve warm alongside grilled meats or as part of a refreshing salad.

This Coconut Lime Rice recipe is sure to become your go-to side dish, adding an exotic flair to any meal!

You Must Know

  • Coconut lime rice is not just a side dish; it’s an experience that elevates any meal
  • The combination of tropical coconut and zesty lime brings sunshine to your plate
  • It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making every bite a flavorful adventure

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. Cook the rice in coconut milk for creaminess, then add lime zest and juice for brightness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in veggies like peas or bell peppers for color and texture. You can also swap coconut milk with almond milk if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover coconut lime rice in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect coconut lime rice, use jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma and fluffy consistency
  • Always let the rice rest after cooking to absorb flavors fully
  • Don’t skip rinsing; it prevents clumping, ensuring each grain is separate and delightful

There’s nothing quite like serving coconut lime rice at family gatherings and watching everyone’s faces light up with joy. It’s become my go-to recipe, especially when I need to impress!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for coconut lime rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time and liquid ratio since brown rice takes longer to cook.

How do I prevent my coconut lime rice from becoming mushy?

Rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch and ensure fluffy grains.

What dishes pair well with coconut lime rice?

It complements grilled chicken, shrimp tacos, or stir-fried vegetables beautifully, enhancing every bite.

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Coconut Lime Rice

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Coconut Lime Rice is a vibrant, tropical side dish that transforms ordinary meals into flavorful escapes. Fluffy jasmine rice is cooked in creamy coconut milk and brightened with fresh lime juice for a delightful combination that enhances grilled meats, seafood, or salads. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its refreshing taste and beautiful presentation, Coconut Lime Rice is sure to impress your family and friends.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 lime (juiced and zested)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
  4. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before stirring in lime zest and juice.
  5. If desired, mix in chopped cilantro for added freshness before serving warm alongside your favorite grilled dishes.
  • Author: James
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (185g)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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