Lemon Rice Recipe

Lemon Rice Recipe

This lemon rice recipe is a delightful, tangy, and fragrant dish perfect as a side or a main course. The zesty lemon flavor combined with aromatic spices makes it a crowd pleaser. It’s an easy to make dish that pairs well with a variety of curries, grilled meats, or vegetables. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a simple family meal, lemon rice is sure to impress.

Description

Lemon Rice Recipe is a classic dish known for its bright and refreshing flavor. It is popular in Indian cuisine but has become a favorite in various parts of the world due to its simple ingredients and the burst of citrus it provides. This Lemon Rice Recipe is made by mixing cooked rice with tangy lemon juice, tempered with aromatic spices such as mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and turmeric. The result is a colorful, flavorful dish that can be served as a side or even as a main course.

The key to the perfect lemon rice recipe is balancing the tanginess of lemon with the earthy flavors of the spices. The recipe includes a base of cooked rice, ideally basmati for its fragrance and long grains, though any long grain rice can work. The rice is cooked separately and then tossed with a spiced oil mixture that adds depth and warmth to the dish. Fresh lemon juice and zest are then added to finish the dish, giving it that signature tang.

This lemon rice recipe is not only flavorful but also highly customizable. You can add roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunch or include vegetables like peas, carrots, or beans to make it a more substantial meal. It’s a great dish for meal prep or for entertaining, as it can be made in advance and served cold or warm.

Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C from the fresh lemon juice, this recipe is a healthy option for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s also gluten-free and can be easily adapted to suit vegan diets by omitting ghee or butter and using oil instead.

Perfect for any occasion, this lemon rice recipe brings a combination of fresh flavors and comforting textures to the table. It’s also an excellent dish for lunchboxes, picnic spreads, or potlucks. You can experiment by adding your favorite herbs or even a sprinkle of cheese for a different twist. The versatility of this dish makes it a winner for everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or coconut)
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 dried red chilies
10-12 fresh curry leaves
1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional for heat)
1/4 cup roasted peanuts (optional for crunch)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Rice: Wash the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Tempering: In a large pan or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they begin to splutter, add the dried red chilies, chopped green chilies (if using), and curry leaves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Spices: Stir in the turmeric powder and sauté for another 30 seconds. If you like a bit of crunch, add the roasted peanuts to the tempering and cook for another minute.
Mix Rice with Spices: Add the cooked rice to the pan with the tempered spices. Gently stir to combine the rice with the spices, making sure the turmeric and curry leaves coat the rice evenly.
Add Lemon: Stir in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt to taste and mix everything well. The rice should take on a vibrant yellow color from the turmeric and lemon juice.
Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve the lemon rice warm or at room temperature.

Notes

You can use other types of rice like jasmine or long grain rice, but basmati rice gives the best fragrance and texture for this dish.
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of green chilies or omit them altogether.
For a more substantial meal, feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or beans when cooking the rice.
Lemon rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
For extra flavor, try adding a dash of ghee or butter when mixing the rice.