Lemon Rice Recipe – A Refreshing South Indian Delight
Lemon Rice, known as Chitranna in many South Indian households, is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the goodness of rice with the tangy zest of lemon, making it a delightful choice for any meal. This easy-to-make recipe is enhanced with a few essential ingredients like curry leaves, green chilies, and mustard seeds, which contribute to its aroma and taste. Whether you have leftover rice or prefer to prepare fresh rice, this recipe can be a quick and satisfying option for lunch, especially for packing in a lunch box.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Rice | 2 cups |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai) | 1 teaspoon |
| Split White Urad Dal | 1 teaspoon |
| Peanuts | 1/4 cup |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Ginger (Grated) | 1-inch piece |
| Green Chilies (Chopped) | 2 |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sesame Oil (Til Oil) | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh Coriander (Chopped) | A handful |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions
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Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking the rice. You can use freshly made rice or repurpose leftover rice. Ensure that the rice is cooled down to prevent it from becoming too sticky when mixed with the seasonings.
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Tempering the Spices: In a large pan or kadhai, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds (rai) and split urad dal. Sauté them until the mustard seeds start to splutter and the urad dal turns golden brown.
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Add Aromatics: Now, add the peanuts to the pan. Roast them lightly until they turn golden and crispy. Then, toss in the curry leaves, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Stir everything together and sauté for another 15 seconds, allowing the spices and aromatics to release their flavors.
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Spice It Up: Add turmeric powder to the pan and mix well. The turmeric will give the rice a lovely yellow color and a subtle earthy flavor. Let the spices cook for a few seconds.
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Combine with Rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan. Sprinkle in the salt to taste. Gently mix the rice with the tempering ingredients. Reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
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Add Lemon and Garnish: Once the rice is well-mixed, turn off the heat. Pour in the fresh lemon juice according to your taste preference. Stir everything to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the tangy lemon flavor.
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Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your delicious lemon rice with a side of yogurt or any raita of your choice for a complete meal.
Enjoy this refreshing South Indian classic that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish to your favorite curry!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Vitamin C: 12% of Daily Value
Lemon rice offers a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and nutty flavors that are loved by people of all ages. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a popular dish in many households across India. You can also customize the recipe by adding other ingredients like vegetables or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
