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Homemade Cilantro Rice recipe photo

Cilantro Rice

This Cilantro Rice is bursting with flavor! A vibrant dish that enhances any meal with its fresh cilantro and colorful bell peppers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 cups uncooked parboiled rice Uncle Ben's recommended
  • 0.25 cup chicken stock base or vegetable stock base for a different flavor
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 0.5 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 0.5 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 0.25 cup chopped cilantro leaves

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups
  • Chopping knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Start by rinsing the uncooked parboiled rice under cold water. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine 4 ½ cups of water with ¼ cup of chicken stock base. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
  3. Once the broth is boiling, add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir gently and reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
  4. While the rice is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green and red bell peppers and sauté them until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and gently mix in the sautéed bell peppers and chopped cilantro. Stir until everything is well combined.
  6. Transfer the Cilantro Rice to a serving dish, garnish with additional cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Perfect for meal prep; store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • To freeze, let the rice cool completely before placing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • To reheat, microwave until hot or sauté in a skillet with a splash of water.