Lemon Rice Recipe: Simple, Flavorful Indian Delight

How to Make Lemon Rice

Lemon rice, known as Chitranna or Nimmakaya Pulihora in South India, is a delightful and vibrant dish that encapsulates the zest of lemon with the aroma of spices. This easy-to-prepare, flavorful meal can turn leftover rice into a feast for the senses. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or something quick to whip up for an unexpected guest, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of cooked rice (preferably day-old, cooled, and fluffed)
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 1 tablespoon chana dal (split Bengal gram)
• 1-2 dry red chillies, broken
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 1-2 green chillies, slit
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ¹⁄₄ cup peanuts or cashews (optional for additional texture)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Salt to taste

Preparation

1. Fluff the Rice: Use day-old or cooked and cooled rice to prevent it from getting mushy. Fluff it up with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Squeeze Lemon Juice: Extract the juice from one large lemon and set it aside.

Cooking Process

1. Start with Tempering:
   • Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and let them pop.
   • Once the mustard seeds pop, add cumin seeds, urad dal, and chana dal. Sauté until the dals turn golden.
2. Add Spices and Nuts:
   • Add dry red chillies, curry leaves, and green chillies to the pan. Fry for about 30 seconds.
   • If you’re using peanuts or cashews, add them now and roast until they turn golden brown.
3. Combine with Rice:
   • Lower the heat and add turmeric powder to the pan, giving it a quick stir.
   • Add the rice to the pan, gently tossing to coat it evenly with the spices.
   • Pour in the lemon juice, add salt, and mix well. Be careful not to mash the rice grains.
4. Garnish:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Rice

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Use only fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the zest and tanginess.
• Type of Rice: While any rice can be used, Basmati or long grain rice works best because it remains fluffy and distinct.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green or red chillies according to your spice tolerance.
• Pre-Tempering: Ensure the oil is hot enough for the mustard seeds to pop. This helps in releasing their flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon rice pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments:

• Yogurt or raita
• Papad (crisp, thin Indian crackers)
• Pickle or achar
• Salad or cucumber raita

🍋 Note: You can enhance the flavor by adding chopped ginger or grated coconut for a unique twist.

With its zesty flavor and the aroma of south Indian spices, lemon rice is not only a delight to eat but also easy to prepare. It's the perfect dish when you're in the mood for something light yet flavorful, or when you need to turn leftover rice into something special. The simplicity of ingredients and the burst of citrus make it a go-to recipe for many occasions, whether you're looking for a quick meal, a side dish, or something to impress your guests with the vibrant tastes of Indian cuisine.

Can Lemon Rice be eaten cold?

+

Yes, lemon rice can be enjoyed both warm and at room temperature, making it an ideal picnic or party dish. If you prefer it cold, ensure the rice is well refrigerated before serving.

How long can you store lemon rice?

+

Lemon rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to preserve its flavor and texture.

Can I use other ingredients in Lemon Rice?

+

Absolutely! Lemon rice is quite versatile. You can add chopped onions, grated carrots, peas, or even shredded chicken or prawns to make it a more substantial meal. Just ensure that any additions do not overpower the primary flavors of lemon and the spices.