In its most basic form, cilantro rice is a mixture of cooked rice and fresh cilantro. Oftentimes the cilantro is pureed in a food processor or a blender and mixed with the rice. Other times the cilantro is only roughly chopped and mixed with the rice. While cilantro rice can be eaten without adding other flavors, it can also be made spicy or given an Asian flare. The dish can provide a wide range of health benefits as well, as it is packed with vitamins and minerals, particularly if the rice is enriched or if brown rice is used.
One of the most popular ways to make cilantro rice is also the easiest. In general, a mixture of fresh cilantro leaves, lime juice, and scallions is pureed in a food processor or blender. After the rice has finished cooking, the mixture is simply stirred into the rice.
Some people prefer spicier dishes. In those cases, a variety of chili peppers can be used. For example, some recipes call for a chopped jalapeno to be added to the mixture. Other recipes call for a Serrano pepper or a chipotle pepper. Typically, the type of pepper that is used depends on the personal preferences of the chef.
Cilantro rice can also be given an Asian flare. This can be done by combining ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cilantro and then adding it to the rice. In some cases, other meats and vegetables can be added to the cilantro rice mixture — this often works best when cooking with a wok. In those instances, a fried rice mixture may be made using cilantro and rice as the key ingredients.
There are a wealth of health benefits for people who consume cilantro. In general, this is because it is an antiseptic and an antioxidant. It is also used to treat digestion issues, prevent vision problems, and slow the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Some people also believe that it will prevent osteoporosis and even block certain cancers from forming. It is high in potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese; it also contains vitamins A, C, K, and folic acid.
Rice is usually divided into two groups: white rice and brown rice. Typically, people believe that brown rice offers more health benefits than white rice. In some cases, the white rice may be fortified or enriched, giving it an extra boost of vitamins and minerals. In general, rice is thought to help people suffering with digestive issues, such as nausea and indigestion. It is also believed to help the spleen function.
In cilantro rice, using brown rice means that the dish will be higher in fiber than if white rice is used. In addition, using brown rice for this dish may also help to lower cholesterol and prevent gallstones. Some people believe that consuming brown rice can prevent breast cancer and asthma in children, as well.
Both types of rice contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals. For example, manganese, selenium, magnesium are usually present in large amounts. In addition, vitamins, B1, B3, and B6 are present. Brown rice may contain higher percentages of these vitamins and minerals, unless the white rice is enriched.