Lemon rice, a quintessential South Indian dish, epitomizes the art of transforming simple ingredients into a vibrant and flavorful meal. Known for its refreshing tang and aromatic spices, this dish has a special place in the hearts and kitchens of many. Whether you’re seeking a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or a standout addition to a festive spread, lemon rice offers a perfect balance of ease and elegance.
A Culinary Tradition
Originating from the diverse culinary traditions of South India, lemon ric-e is a testament to the region’s skill in creating dishes that are both comforting and bursting with flavor. This dish combines cooked rice with a tempering of mustard seeds, urad dal (split black gram), and chana dal (split chickpeas), infused with the tangy zest of lemon juice. The result is a vibrant, golden-yellow rice that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at.
Ingredients That Shine
The simplicity of lemon ric-e is part of its charm. With just a handful of ingredients—rice, lemon juice, mustard seeds, green chilies, and a few spices—you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and full of character. The mustard seeds and dals add a crunch and depth of flavor, while the fresh lemon juice provides a bright, tangy contrast. Optional additions like roasted peanuts and curry leaves enhance the texture and flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
A Quick and Versatile Recipe
What sets lemon ric-e apart is its versatility and ease of preparation. The dish is a great way to use up leftover rice, and its quick cooking time makes it an ideal choice for busy days. Serve it on its own or pair it with yogurt, pickles, or a side of vegetable curry for a well-rounded meal.
Bringing Lemon Rice to Your Table
Making lemon ric-e is straightforward: cook the rice, prepare a simple tempering, and combine the two with a splash of lemon juice. The result is a dish that’s aromatic, tangy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, lemon ric-e offers a delightful and rewarding cooking experience.
Ingredients: Lemon Rice Recipe
1 cup rice (preferably long-grain or basmati)
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or coconut oil works well)
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram; optional, for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas; optional)
1-2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida; optional, for a unique flavor)
1/4 cup roasted peanuts (optional, for added texture)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon chopped curry leaves (optional, for authentic flavor)
Cooking Instructions: Lemon Rice Recipe
Cook the Rice:
Rinse 1 cup of rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
Cook the rice according to the package instructions or in a rice cooker. Let it cool completely to avoid mushiness.
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter.
Add 1 teaspoon of urad dal, 1 teaspoon of chana dal (if using), and cook until they turn golden brown.
Add the slit green chilies and curry leaves (if using), and sauté for a minute.
Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1/4 teaspoon of hing (if using).
Combine with Rice:
Add the cooked rice to the pan and gently mix to combine with the tempering.
Add salt to taste and mix well.
Add Lemon Juice:
Turn off the heat and add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the rice. Stir gently to ensure the lemon juice is evenly distributed.
Finish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and roasted peanuts (if using).
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your lemon ric-e with yogurt, pickle, or even on its own!
Some More Interesting Recipes –
- Mutton Dum Biryani Recipe
- Egg Fried Rice Recipe
- Coconut Rice Recipe
- Pudina Rice Recipe : A Refreshing Indian Classic
- Jeera Rice Recipe
- Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Vegetable fried rice Recipe
- Andhra Chicken Biryani Cooking Recipe
- Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani Recipe
- Chilli Chicken Recipe
- Garlic Chicken Masala Recipe
- Palak Chicken (Spinach Chicken) Recipe
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- Saffron Risotto Recipe
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- Parmesan Cheese Risotto Recipe
- Chicken Mushroom Risotto Recipe
- Mushroom Risotto Recipe
FAQs About Lemon Rice Recipe
1. What type of rice is best for lemon rice?
For lemon ric-e, long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine rice work best because they stay separate and fluffy. You can also use any other variety of rice you prefer, but it’s important to ensure the rice is cooked properly and cooled before mixing it with the spices.
2. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, leftover rice is ideal for lemon ric-e. Using day-old rice helps achieve the perfect texture, as it’s less likely to become mushy when mixed with the tempering and lemon juice.
3. How can I make lemon rice spicier?
To make your lemon ric-e spicier, you can increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili powder to the tempering. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
4. What can I use if I don’t have urad dal or chana dal?
If you don’t have urad dal or chana dal, you can omit them or substitute with a small amount of peanuts or cashews for added texture. The dish will still be delicious without these ingredients.
5. How do I store lemon rice?
Store leftover lemon ric-e in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.
6. Can I freeze lemon rice?
Yes, you can freeze lemon rice. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
7. Can I make lemon rice vegan?
Yes, lemon rice is naturally vegan. Just make sure that all ingredients used, including the oil, are plant-based.
8. How can I add more vegetables to lemon ric-e?
You can enhance lemon rice with vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Add finely chopped vegetables to the tempering and cook them until tender before mixing with the rice.
9. What can I serve with lemon rice?
Lemon rice pairs well with yogurt, pickle, or a simple vegetable curry. It can also be enjoyed on its own or with a side of raita or a fresh salad.
10. Can I make lemon ric-e without mustard seeds?
Yes, you can make lemon ric-e without mustard seeds. If you prefer not to use mustard seeds, simply skip them and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Lemon Rice Recipe
Ingredients: Lemon Rice Recipe
Cooking Instructions: Lemon Rice Recipe
Cook the Rice:
- Rinse 1 cup of rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions or in a rice cooker. Let it cool completely to avoid mushiness.
Prepare the Tempering:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add 1 teaspoon of urad dal, 1 teaspoon of chana dal (if using), and cook until they turn golden brown.
- Add the slit green chilies and curry leaves (if using), and sauté for a minute.
- Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1/4 teaspoon of hing (if using).
Combine with Rice:
- Add the cooked rice to the pan and gently mix to combine with the tempering.
- Add salt to taste and mix well.
Add Lemon Juice:
- Turn off the heat and add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the rice. Stir gently to ensure the lemon juice is evenly distributed.
Finish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and roasted peanuts (if using).
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
