Chipotle-Style Cilantro Lime Rice
This version replaces industrial vegetable oils with heart-healthy avocado oil and utilizes organic brown rice for sustained energy and fiber.
- Cuisine Mexican
- Course Main
- Prep 10 min
- Cook 35 min
- Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 cup organic long-grain brown rice
- 2 cups filtered water
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 large lime
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp raw honey (optional)
Clean swaps
How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.
- Canola or vegetable oil (typical restaurant) → Avocado oil — Avoids inflammatory omega-6 rich industrial seed oils.
- White rice → Organic brown rice — Provides higher fiber content and a lower glycemic index.
- Refined sugar/Artificial flavorings → Raw honey and fresh lime — Uses whole-food sources for sweetness and acidity without chemical additives.
Instructions
- Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a medium pot, heat the avocado oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed rice and ground cumin to the pot, stirring for 2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
- Pour in the filtered water and sea salt; bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 30-35 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and fold in the lime juice, raw honey, and fresh cilantro.
FAQ
Is this Chipotle-Style Cilantro Lime Rice gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure the brown rice is certified gluten-free.
Can I use Jasmine rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, Jasmine rice will provide a softer texture similar to the restaurant version; simply reduce the simmering time by about 10 minutes.
Cooked it?
Mark it made — add a photo if you like.