Carrot Lemon Rice Recipe: A Healthy, Flavorful South Indian Delight
Carrot Lemon Rice is a vibrant, healthy twist on the traditional South Indian Lemon Rice. Infused with the goodness of fresh, grated carrots, this dish is bursting with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying lunch. The addition of turmeric and mustard seeds brings out a wonderful aroma, while the tangy lemon juice ties everything together beautifully. The crunch of carrots and the zesty citrus make this a delightful one-pot meal, perfect for any occasion.
Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this Carrot Lemon Rice will definitely hit the spot. It pairs wonderfully with a side of yogurt, curries, or even a crispy papad for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 4 cups |
| Carrot (Gajjar), grated | 1 cup |
| Oil (Coconut or Vegetable) | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 2 teaspoons |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Dessicated Coconut | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approx.):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredient quantities. Actual values may vary based on brands and specific preparation methods.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4-5
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients together. Grate the carrot and set aside. Chop the green chilli finely and gather the curry leaves, mustard seeds, and other ingredients.
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Tempering the Spices: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil (or ghee for added flavor) in a pan on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter for a few seconds.
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Sauté the Dal and Curry Leaves: Next, add the curry leaves and white urad dal to the pan. Stir gently and cook until the lentils turn golden brown. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
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Add the Desiccated Coconut: Add the desiccated coconut to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until it becomes aromatic and slightly golden.
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Cook the Carrot: Add the grated carrot to the pan and sauté for about a minute, until the rawness disappears. If you are adding any dry fruits like cashews or peanuts, this is the time to toss them in.
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Combine Rice and Spices: Once the carrot is cooked, add the previously cooked rice to the pan. Stir in salt and turmeric powder. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the seasoning. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Add the Lemon Juice: Turn off the heat and squeeze in fresh lemon juice, mixing it through the rice for that tangy punch.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh curry leaves for a vibrant touch. Your Carrot Lemon Rice is now ready to serve!
This dish is best enjoyed with a side of cool, creamy yogurt or your favorite curry. For a more traditional South Indian meal, serve with papad and a tangy pickle.
Tips for Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, you can use ghee (clarified butter) instead of oil.
- If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add more green chillies or include red chilli powder.
- For extra crunch, you can add roasted peanuts or cashews during the sautéing process.
Why You’ll Love This Carrot Lemon Rice:
This dish isn’t just delicious but packed with nutrients. Carrots provide a good source of fiber and vitamin A, while the spices used, like turmeric, have antioxidant properties. The tangy lemon juice adds a burst of vitamin C, making this rice both a tasty and health-boosting option for your lunch or dinner.
Whether you’re looking for a quick, healthy lunch or a light dinner option, Carrot Lemon Rice is sure to brighten your day. With its vibrant color and refreshing flavor, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy the taste of South India right in your own kitchen!
This Carrot Lemon Rice Recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors with a healthy twist and experience the joy of homemade South Indian cuisine!
