Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice (300g)
  • 3 cups water (710ml)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (6g)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (15g)
  • Juice of 2 limes (approx. 4 tablespoons)
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (680g), cut into 1-inch pieces OR 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak (680g) OR 1 (14-ounce) package extra-firm tofu (397g), pressed and cubed OR 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans (850g total), rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (7g)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin (2g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (1g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (1g)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced or sliced
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (120g)
  • 1/4 cup salsa (60g)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • Pickled onions

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice. Combine rice, water, oil, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and stir in the cilantro and lime juice. Set aside.
  2. Marinate your chosen protein (chicken, steak, tofu) with the spices. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you prep other ingredients. For black beans just heat them up.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook until fully cooked through and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Steak can be cooked to your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
  4. While the protein is cooking, chop the lettuce, red onion, bell pepper, and avocado. Prepare any other toppings you desire.
  5. Divide the cilantro-lime rice among four bowls. Top with the cooked protein, shredded lettuce, red onion, bell pepper, avocado, sour cream/yogurt, salsa, cheese (if using), and any other desired toppings.