Lemon Rice
Lemon rice is a fragrant and zesty dish that marries the simplicity of rice with the bright taste of lemon. This South Indian favorite is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a side to pair with your favorite curry, lemon rice is versatile and satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Optional: curry leaves
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
This dish provides approximately 250 calories per serving (1 cup). It contains around 8g of protein, 10g of fat, and 40g of carbohydrates, making it a balanced meal option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add green chilies and curry leaves, sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in the turmeric powder and mix well.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan.
- Pour in the lemon juice and mix gently to combine.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Fold in the roasted peanuts for crunch.
- Sprinkle fresh coriander on top for garnish.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute green chilies with bell peppers. For a nuttier taste, add cashews instead of peanuts. Using brown rice instead of white can also enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
Serving and Pairings
Lemon rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside spicy curries, yogurt, or a simple salad. It also makes a great picnic dish or lunchbox option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover lemon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warm. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using stale rice can affect the flavor; always use freshly cooked rice.
- Not allowing mustard seeds to splutter may lead to a bland taste.
- Overcooking the rice will make it mushy.
- Adding too much lemon juice can make the dish too tangy.
- Forgetting to season with salt will leave the dish flat.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of green chilies.
- Garnishing with fried onions can add a delightful crunch.
- For a vegan option, ensure the oil used is plant-based.
FAQs
What is the origin of lemon rice?
Lemon rice is a traditional South Indian dish, often enjoyed as a comfort food during festivals or as a quick meal. It’s a staple in many households due to its simplicity and refreshing taste.
Can I prepare lemon rice in advance?
Yes, you can prepare lemon rice ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed cold or reheated, making it a great option for meal prep.
What can I substitute for peanuts?
If you’re allergic to peanuts or prefer not to use them, you can substitute with cashews or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
Is lemon rice gluten-free?
Yes, lemon rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to lemon rice?
Absolutely! You can enhance lemon rice by adding peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Conclusion
Lemon rice is a delightful dish that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with aromatic spices, making it a beloved recipe in many cultures. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with other dishes, it’s sure to brighten up any meal. Give it a try and savor the refreshing taste of this easy-to-make recipe!
Lemon Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
- 2 green chilies chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander chopped
- Salt to taste
- Optional: curry leaves
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add green chilies and curry leaves, sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in the turmeric powder and mix well.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan.
- Pour in the lemon juice and mix gently to combine.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Fold in the roasted peanuts for crunch.
- Sprinkle fresh coriander on top for garnish.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
