Description
This Cilantro Lime Instant Pot Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish inspired by the popular Chipotle version. Made with white rice cooked perfectly in the Instant Pot, it is brightened with fresh lime juice and cilantro, providing a zesty and fresh complement to a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Cooking
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup water
Seasoning
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped cilantro (lightly-packed)
- 3 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (typically from 2 large limes)
Instructions
- Rinse rice: Place the uncooked rice in a mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Shake gently to remove extra water.
- Prepare Instant Pot: Transfer the rinsed rice into the liner of the Instant Pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add water and cook: Pour in 1 cup of water and stir gently to combine. Close the Instant Pot lid, ensure the vent is set to “Sealed,” and press the “Rice” button. Adjust rice type settings if needed, then press “Start.”
- Natural steam release: When cooking is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally. Open the lid only after the vent button drops down, indicating it’s safe to open.
- Flavor the rice: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork to separate the grains. Gently stir in the chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice, then adjust salt seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Serve the rice warm as a zesty and fresh side dish to complement various meals.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes excess starch to prevent the rice from being sticky.
- Natural pressure release allows the rice to finish cooking gently and retain moisture.
- Adjust lime juice based on your preference for acidity and brightness.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor impact.
- This recipe pairs well with Mexican, Tex-Mex, or grilled dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Cilantro lime rice, Instant Pot rice, Chipotle rice copycat, Mexican side dish, easy rice recipe
