Cilantro Black Lime Rice

Zesty, Jewel-Toned Rice Dish

Nutty, vibrant and rich in natural color, this cilantro lime forbidden black rice transforms a simple side dish into something truly special. Forbidden black rice offers a pleasantly chewy texture along with antioxidant-rich pigments that give the rice its striking deep purplish-black hue. Fresh lime juice, cilantro and garlic add brightness and flavor, making this nourishing whole-grain dish the perfect pairing for grilled proteins, roasted vegetables, tacos or grain bowls.

Recipe Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Avocado oil
  • 1 Garlic clove minced
  • 1 cup Forbidden black rice
  • 1 ½ cups Water or broth
  • 1 Lime zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)
  • ½ cups Finely chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Set aside.

2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the rice and salt, and stir the rice for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.

3. Add the water, bring up to a boil, cover pot and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 35 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. You can check if all water has been absorbed by tilting the pan to its side and checking to see if any water is pooling at the edge. Remove the pot from heat (keep it covered) and let it steam for an additional 5 minutes.

4. Stir in lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until well-combined. Serve immediately.

About the Recipe Author

Lisa Markley, MS, RDN, LD, is an integrative dietitian culinary nutrition expert with nearly two decades of experience working towards improving the health of others. She is passionate about educating others how to harness the healing power of food and healthful lifestyle changes.