Mint Cilantro and Coconut Rice

Elevate your rice game with this vibrant and aromatic Mint Cilantro and Coconut Rice recipe—a perfect fusion of fresh herbs and creamy coconut milk that will transport your taste buds to tropical bliss. Infused with the earthy warmth of cumin seeds and brightened by the bold freshness of mint and cilantro, this dish is as flavorful as it is fragrant. Every grain of basmati rice is delicately coated in a vivid green herb paste, made even richer by the addition of luscious coconut milk. With optional garnishes of crunchy cashews and a tangy squeeze of lime, this recipe is versatile enough to be served as a beautiful side dish or a light, plant-based main course. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, this gluten-free recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful twist on classic rice dishes.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 0.5 cup Mint leaves (fresh)
• 0.5 cup Cilantro leaves (fresh)
• 0.5 cup Coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon Oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
• 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 small Green chili (finely chopped, optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 2 tablespoons Cashews (optional, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon Lime juice (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 15 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a blender or food processor, add the fresh mint leaves, cilantro leaves, and a splash of water. Blend until smooth and set the herb paste aside.

Step 3

In a medium-sized pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and green chili (if using) and sauté for another 1 minute.

Step 5

Add the prepared herb paste to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paste slightly thickens and its raw smell dissipates.

Step 6

Stir in the drained basmati rice and mix well to coat the rice with the herb mixture.

Step 7

Pour in the water and coconut milk, and add the salt. Stir gently to combine.

Step 8

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 9

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to steam.

Step 10

Fluff the rice with a fork, and if desired, add a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.

Step 11

Garnish with cashews if using, and serve warm as a side dish or main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1107 grams (1107.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	628

Total Fat 24.10g	31%
Saturated Fat 14.00g	70%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1268mg	55%
Total Carbohydrate 92.30g	34%
Dietary Fiber 12.60g	45%
Total Sugars 16.10g
Protein 16.60g	33%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 382mg	29%
Iron 22mg	120%
Potassium 1161mg	25%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.2%

Protein: 10.2%

Carbs: 56.6%