Lemon Oats: A Simple, Flavorful, and Healthy Indian Breakfast Delight
Lemon rice is a quintessential dish that most Indian households turn to when looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. It’s an all-time favorite for lunch or dinner, offering a delightful combination of tangy lemon and aromatic spices. But what if you could enjoy the same deliciousness of lemon rice, without the hassle of cooking rice, and with a healthier twist? That’s where Lemon Oats come in!
Introducing Lemon Oats, a fantastic alternative to traditional lemon rice that skips the rice but retains all the mouthwatering flavors. With instant oats replacing the rice, this recipe offers a healthier option packed with essential nutrients, and the preparation is quicker and easier than ever. If you love the idea of lemon rice but are looking for something lighter and more nutritious, then this Lemon Oats recipe will quickly become your go-to dish.
Perfect for a busy morning or a light dinner, this vegetarian recipe blends aromatic spices, tangy lemon, and a variety of textures that make it a complete meal. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Lemon Oats Recipe
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1 cup |
| Water | 3/4 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Green Chillies | 3, slit |
| Ginger | 1 tsp, grated |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1 tsp |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 tsp |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 tbsp |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 3/4 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) leaves | For garnish |
| Roasted Peanuts (Moongphali) | For garnish |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Instructions
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Prepare the Dal: Start by washing the chana dal thoroughly. Soak it in water for about 10 minutes to soften it.
-
Roast the Oats: In a dry pan, roast the instant oats on low flame. Stir occasionally until the oats release a pleasant, nutty aroma. This should take just 3–4 minutes.
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Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and wait for them to crackle.
-
Fry the Dals and Spices: Add the soaked chana dal and white urad dal to the pan. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions, slit green chillies, curry leaves, and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté the mixture until the onions turn translucent and soft.
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Add the Turmeric and Salt: Stir in the turmeric powder and salt, mixing everything thoroughly to coat the ingredients with the spices.
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Cook the Oats: Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the flame and add the roasted oats. Stir gently to ensure no lumps are formed.
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Simmer and Combine: Cover the pan and cook the oats for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the oats to absorb the flavors and soften.
-
Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the lid and add the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to incorporate the lemon’s tanginess into the oats. Cook for an additional 3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Garnish and Serve: Once the oats are cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves and a handful of roasted peanuts for added crunch. You can also sprinkle some grated coconut for an extra touch of flavor.
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Enjoy: Serve your flavorful Lemon Oats with a hot cup of Masala Chai and a bowl of fresh fruits for a wholesome, satisfying breakfast or light dinner.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Oats
Lemon Oats is the ideal dish for anyone who craves the zingy, fragrant flavors of lemon rice but wants a lighter, quicker option. By swapping out rice for oats, this recipe becomes a healthier alternative that is both filling and nourishing. The combination of mustard seeds, cumin, urad dal, and chana dal offers a perfect balance of spices, while the fresh lemon juice adds that delightful citrusy punch. Plus, the roasted peanuts provide a nice crunch, making every bite an enjoyable experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Vitamin C | 10% of daily value |
| Calcium | 2% of daily value |
Whether you are in the mood for a quick, light meal or need something that will keep you energized throughout the day, Lemon Oats is a fantastic choice. It’s not only healthy and delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect option for busy mornings or relaxed dinner times. Enjoy it as part of a nutritious breakfast or serve it as a side with your favorite curry for a complete meal!
