Chipotle Grill style Cilantro Lime Rice

imple yet fragrant and flavorful is the theme this time around on USMasala. Speaking of simple and flavorful reminds me of this really elegant rice preparation we often have at one of our local Mexican fast food joints. I am sure many of you have heard of Chipotle Mexican Grill and most of you are regulars as well like we are. If you haven't, it is a Mexican fast food chain that serves your usual burritos and tacos. The menu is really short and simple. The difference with them is what matters when it comes to food - fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Even their basic cilantro lime rice hits a note with the palate.
Wondering what I was doing eating rice at a Mexican fast food joint? Well here's how the story goes. Like I said, we often go to the place, have done for a while, but for the longest time I always had their salad bowl-no rice (who eats rice with salad, right?), hubs would order the burrito with no rice and we would get the kids meal for our little one. The kids meal came with a quesadilla, some cilatro rice and black beans and chips and guacamole on the side. This one time, when kiddo was not up for eating the rice, I gave it a try and that is when the discovery was made. Here's a tip for you, never underestimate the power of bold flavor, however simple the dish may be.
Of course you need to pair this rice with a side. I made their black beans as well. That's to be shared soon. For now you can pick any of the other curries on USMasala and enjoy.

Ingredients:

Cooked Basmati Rice		3 cups at room temperature
Lime Juice		2 - 3 tbsp fresh squeezed
Salt		to taste
Lime zest		1 tsp
Cilantro leaves		1/2 cup chopped
Oil		1 tbsp
Sugar		1/4 tsp
Jalapeno/Green chilli		1 tsp or to taste, chopped

Method:
1. In a large pan heat the oil on medium heat, add in the green chilli and saute for 30 sec. Add in the cilantro,, rice and salt, give a good mix.
2.  Let it cook for 2 min, add in the lime zest, lime juice and stir to combine. Sprinkle the sugar. Mix and take off the heat. Serve hot. ENJOY!

Pin It