Lemon Rice Recipe: Tangy Delight
When life gives you lemons, make lemon rice! This simple and flavorful dish is a staple in South Indian cuisine, known for its bright and zesty flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, lemon rice is a go-to recipe that’s quick to prepare and bursting with deliciousness. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking method to create your very own batch of lemon rice.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of Basmati or regular rice: You can use either, but Basmati rice adds a delightful fragrance to the dish.
- 2 lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the star of this dish, so make sure your lemons are juicy.
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil: Vegetable or peanut oil works great.
- 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds: These tiny seeds add a burst of flavor when they pop in the hot oil.
- 1/2 teaspoon of urad dal (split black gram): This lentil provides a nutty flavor and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon of chana dal (split chickpeas): Adds a nice crunch to the dish.
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing): This spice enhances the flavor and aids in digestion.
- 2-3 dried red chilies: Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
- A few curry leaves: These impart an earthy aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder: Adds a lovely yellow color and mild flavor.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional): Adds a burst of freshness to the dish.
Preparation Steps:
1. Cooking the Rice:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice and cook it until it’s tender but not mushy. This should take about 12-15 minutes for Basmati rice or according to the package instructions for regular rice.
- Once cooked, drain any excess water and set the rice aside to cool.
2. Preparing the Lemon Juice:
- Roll the lemons on a countertop to release their juices.
- Cut them in half and squeeze out the fresh lemon juice. Remove any seeds.
3. Tempering the Spices:
- In a pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
- Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Now, add the urad dal, chana dal, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté them until the dals turn golden brown and the chilies become aromatic.
- Add a pinch of asafoetida and turmeric powder. Stir well.
4. Mixing It All Together:
- Add the cooked and cooled rice to the pan with the tempered spices.
- Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the rice.
- Add salt to taste.
5. Stir and Sauté:
- Gently mix everything together until the lemon juice is evenly distributed and the rice turns a beautiful yellow color.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to let the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- If you like, garnish your lemon rice with fresh coriander leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Lemon rice can be served hot or at room temperature.
Enjoy Your Tangy Lemon Rice:
Lemon rice is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite ingredients. Some popular variations include adding roasted peanuts or cashews for crunch, grated coconut for sweetness, or green chilies for extra heat. This dish makes for a perfect meal on its own, or you can pair it with yogurt, pickle, or a simple salad. It’s also a great option for picnics, potlucks, or lunchboxes, as it stays fresh and flavorful for hours.
In addition to its delicious taste, lemon rice offers health benefits too. Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and aids in digestion. The combination of spices like turmeric and asafoetida also has potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, consider making lemon rice. With its bright and zesty flavors, it’s sure to bring a ray of sunshine to your plate. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or a home cook, this recipe is a keeper. So, grab those lemons and get ready to enjoy a tangy delight that’s both simple and satisfying.
Lemon rice recipe(youtube)- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S582ox6c4l4