Lemon Cilantro Brown Rice

This flavorful dish with a lemony twist is great served with curries. I used brown basmati rice, the addition of turmeric gives this dish an appetizing color.

📝 Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or 1/4 cup water for oil-free option)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup 185g long-grain brown rice, rinsed
• 2 1/2 cups 600g water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup 4g chopped cilantro, plus extra for garnish

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Prepare the Base:
2. 2Heat coconut oil (or water) in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. 3Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
4. 4Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. 5Add Spices and Rice:
6. 6Mix in the turmeric and cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma.
7. 7Add the rinsed brown rice and stir well to coat it with the spice mixture.
8. 8Cook the Rice:
9. 9Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
10. 10Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
11. 11Season the Rice:
12. 12Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat.
13. 13Stir in the lemon juice, sea salt, sesame oil (if using), and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if desired).
14. 14Add Cilantro:
15. 15Gently fold in the chopped cilantro.
16. 16Serve:
17. 17Transfer the rice to a serving bowl, garnish with additional cilantro, and serve warm.