Lemon Rice (Nimbu Chaul)
An Aromatic Delight for the Tastebuds
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4
Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Views: 104,745
Rating: 4.3/5 (40 votes)
Lemon Rice, or Nimbu Chaul, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the tang of fresh lemons, the warmth of spices, and the satisfying crunch of peanuts or cashew nuts. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors, making it an ideal addition to any meal. The use of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies creates a fragrant aroma that adds an extra layer of richness to the dish. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, Lemon Rice is not only delicious but also a great way to infuse your meal with exciting flavors.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil or coconut oil | 4 tbsp (or 2 tbsp coconut oil) |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Curry leaves | 7-10 leaves |
| Green chilies | 3, slit |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Peanuts or cashew nuts | 2 tbsp |
| Lemons | 2, juiced |
| Basmati rice | 200g |
Allergen Information
- Contains Nuts: Peanuts or cashew nuts are used in this dish, so those with nut allergies should exercise caution or use alternative ingredients such as seeds.
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat, poultry, or seafood.
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Vegetarian: Ideal for vegetarians, Lemon Rice is a hearty yet light side dish.
- Nut-Free Option: To make this dish nut-free, you can substitute the peanuts or cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
Instructions Table
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. |
| 2 | In a wide pan, add the washed rice and pour in 500ml of water (double the amount of rice). Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, and cover the pan. Let it cook for about 12 minutes. |
| 3 | Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat and gently fork through the rice. Leave it to cool. |
| 4 | In a separate pan, heat the oil. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the peanuts or cashew nuts and fry them until golden brown. |
| 5 | Add the turmeric powder, curry leaves, green chilies, and salt to the pan. Fry the mixture for a minute to release the spices’ fragrance. |
| 6 | Remove from heat and carefully mix this aromatic mixture into the cooled rice. |
| 7 | Squeeze the juice of the lemons into the rice, mixing gently until all the grains are beautifully coated and bright yellow. |
Advice for Perfect Lemon Rice:
- Rice Texture: Ensure the rice is not overcooked; it should be fluffy and separate easily. Gently fork the rice after cooking to avoid clumping.
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the number of green chilies based on your preference for spice. You can even omit them for a milder flavor.
- Nuts for Crunch: If you’re looking for extra texture, roasted almonds or sunflower seeds can also be used in place of peanuts or cashews.
Conclusion
Lemon Rice, or Nimbu Chaul, is a fragrant, refreshing dish that bursts with zesty lemon flavor and savory spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish for special occasions, this dish is loved by many for its simplicity and taste. With the mild spice and the bright yellow hue from turmeric, it’s not only a treat for the palate but also a visual delight. Whether you pair it with curry or enjoy it on its own, Lemon Rice is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
This recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian cuisine, with its carefully balanced ingredients and spices, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, Lemon Rice is a quick, yet aromatic option for busy days, offering a perfect blend of flavors that are both satisfying and refreshing.
