Lemon Rice (Nimbu Chaul)
A Delightful Dish for Any Occasion
Lemon Rice, known as Nimbu Chaul in various regions, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the aromatic essence of basmati rice with zesty lemon, crunchy peanuts, and the delightful kick of spices. This vegetarian recipe is a perfect side dish or a light meal, making it ideal for lunchboxes or a picnic. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes and a quick cooking time of 10 minutes, Lemon Rice is a delightful addition to any meal.
Recipe Overview
- Serves: 4
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Dietary Info: Vegetarian
- Spice Level: Medium
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil or coconut oil | 4 tbsp or 2 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Curry leaves | 7-10 leaves |
| Green chillies | 3 (slit or chopped) |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Peanuts or cashew nuts | 2 tbsp |
| Lemons | 2 (juiced) |
| Basmati rice | 200 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Rice: Begin by washing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is essential to remove excess starch, ensuring that the rice cooks to fluffy perfection.
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Cooking the Rice: In a wide-based pan, add the washed rice and pour in 500 ml of water, which is twice the amount of rice. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the pan with a lid and allow it to cook for approximately 12 minutes. Once done, remove the pan from heat and gently fork through the rice to fluff it, allowing it to cool slightly.
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Tempering the Spices: While the rice is cooking, take a separate pan and heat the oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Once they start to pop, add the peanuts or cashew nuts and fry them until they turn a lovely golden brown.
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Adding Flavor: Next, stir in the turmeric powder, curry leaves, green chillies, and salt, frying them together for about a minute. The combination of these ingredients will infuse the oil with wonderful aromas.
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Combining Ingredients: Remove the pan from the heat and carefully pour the tempered mixture over the cooked rice. Gently mix to ensure that the rice absorbs all the flavors.
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Finishing Touches: Finally, squeeze the juice from the lemons into the rice mixture. Carefully fold the lemon juice through the rice until it turns a bright yellow color, ensuring that every grain is coated in the zesty lemon flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Rice is best served warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a side of yogurt or raita to balance the spices and enhance the meal. You can also enjoy it alongside your favorite curries or simply as a standalone dish, showcasing its vibrant flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Conclusion
This Lemon Rice recipe brings together the refreshing taste of lemon with the nutty crunch of peanuts, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its bright yellow color. It is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual lunch or a festive gathering. Enjoy making this delightful dish and share it with friends and family!
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as peas or carrots for an extra nutritional boost, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
