Lemon Rice Recipe: Lemon rice is a tantalizing South Indian dish where steamed rice is stir-fried with spices and lemon juice, giving it a tangy flavor and a vibrant yellow color. Similar to Chinese fried rice, this recipe uses different spices, creating a unique and refreshing taste. It’s recommended to use cooked steamed rice prepared at least 2-3 hours in advance or leftover rice for this recipe.
Ingredients: Lemon Rice Recipe
- 2½ cups Steamed Rice (or 3/4 cup raw rice)
- 2 tablespoons Oil
- 3 tablespoons Peanuts
- 6-8 Cashew nuts (optional)
- A pinch of Asafoetida
- 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 1 teaspoon Urad Dal (split black gram)
- 1/2 tablespoon Chana Dal
- 7-8 Curry Leaves
- 1-2 Dry Red Chillies, broken into pieces
- 1-2 Green Chillies, cut lengthwise (optional)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped Coriander Leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1½ tablespoons Lemon Juice
- Salt to taste
Directions: Lemon Rice Recipe
- Rinse and soak 3/4 cup of raw rice in water for 15 minutes. Cook it with 1&1/2 cups of water in a pressure cooker for 2 whistles over medium flame. Allow the pressure cooker to cool naturally. Once done, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. It’s best to cook the rice 2-3 hours in advance to keep the grains separated. Alternatively, you can use leftover rice for this recipe.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium flame. Add 3 tablespoons of raw peanuts and 6-8 cashew nuts.
- Stir-fry them until they turn light golden brown, then transfer them to a plate.
- In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds; when they start to crackle, add a pinch of asafoetida, 1 teaspoon of urad dal, and 1/2 tablespoon of chana dal. Sauté until they turn light golden brown.
- Add 7-8 curry leaves, 1 dry red chili, and 1 green chili.
- Sauté for 30 seconds, then add 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder.
- Mix well, then add the steamed rice.
- Add the fried peanuts and cashew nuts, lemon juice, and salt.
- Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes. Turn off the flame, transfer the dish to a serving bowl, and decorate it with coriander leaves.
Tips and Variations: Lemon Rice Recipe
- Adjust the quantity of lemon juice according to your preferred level of sourness.
- Prepare the steamed rice 1-2 hours in advance before starting to cook. This not only speeds up the cooking process for lemon rice but also ensures each grain of rice remains separate. Leftover rice is more suitable for this South Indian dish as the slightly dried surface of the rice will help it stir-fry rather than steam.
- Top with roasted peanuts instead of fried ones and sprinkle shredded fresh coconut for a different twist.
Taste: Mildly Sour
Serving Ideas: Lemon rice is typically served with coconut chutney or onion raita as a light meal. Its delicious texture makes it ideal for packing in lunch boxes for kids.
Conclusion:
Lemon Rice Recipe is a delightful South Indian dish that offers a burst of tangy flavors and vibrant colors. With its simple yet aromatic preparation, it’s a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. Whether enjoyed as a light meal, packed for lunch, or served as part of a festive spread, lemon rice never fails to impress with its tantalizing taste and easy-to-follow recipe. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of delicious lemon rice today!
FAQs about Lemon Rice Recipe
Can I use leftover rice to make lemon rice?
Yes, leftover rice works perfectly for making lemon rice. In fact, using slightly dried rice enhances the stir-frying process, resulting in better texture and flavor.
Can I adjust the sourness of lemon rice according to my taste preferences?
Absolutely! You can adjust the quantity of lemon juice to suit your preferred level of sourness. Start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
How far in advance can I prepare the steamed rice for lemon rice?
It’s best to cook the steamed rice 2-3 hours in advance to allow it to cool and keep the grains separated. However, you can also prepare it earlier and refrigerate it until needed.
What can I serve with lemon rice?
Lemon rice pairs well with coconut chutney or onion raita, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s also great for packing in lunch boxes for both kids and adults.
Can I add additional ingredients to customize the flavor of lemon rice?
Yes, you can customize lemon rice by adding ingredients like roasted peanuts, shredded fresh coconut, or even vegetables like carrots or peas to enhance its taste and texture.
