LEMON RICE
Lemon Rice is a light yet refreshing Indian dish, full of flavour, and great as an accompaniment or quick meal. It has fluffy basmati rice infused with the tempering of mustard seeds, turmeric, green chilli, and a splash of tart lemon juice. A simple yet vibrant dish mingles aromatic spices well with the bright acidity of the lemon as a healthy, totally satisfying meal. Lemon Rice is one of the South Indian traditions that is mainly served. It can be taken alone or with yoghurt and pickle. Therefore, it’s ideal for people who like easy, time-saving rice preparation that leaves a sumptuous zesty taste. You can also use leftover rice since the recipe can be prepared in less than 15 minutes. Regardless of whether one prepares it for a family lunch, as a snack, or a picnic, Lemon Rice is universally accepted.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Snack, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Indian, South Asian
PREPARATION / TECHNIQUES
Stir-Fry, One-Pot Wonders, Quick & Easy
OCCASION / HOLIDAY
Weeknight Dinner, Family Meals, Picnic, Potluck
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION / DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low Chickpea curry sterol, Low Fat, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Rice Dish, Side
INGREDIENTS
- 60g cooked basmati rice
- 1/4 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 green chilli, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp oil
- Salt, to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
- Calories:130
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fibre: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
PREPARATION OF LEMON RICE
- Heat the oil: Add 1/2 tsp of oil in the pan and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds.
- Sauté the chilli: Then, add the chopped green chillies to the pan. Fry them for 30 seconds till fragrant.
- Add turmeric and rice: Add 1/4 teaspoon of the turmeric powder and cook in the cooked basmati rice. Mix well so that the rice gets evenly coated by the spice.
- Season and add lemon juice: Add any amount of salt that you desire, then add one teaspoon of lemon juice. Mix gently so the flavours will meld well.
- Serve: Remove the rice from heat and serve hot.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
- Roasted peanuts or cashews can be added for more flavour.
- Rice had to be cooled down before stir-frying; otherwise, the rice would clump together.
- Adjust the green chilli quantity to your liking regarding spice.
VARIATIONS
- Add a few leaves of fresh coriander or curry leaves to give flavouring bursts a little more.
- Add sautéed vegetables, such as carrots and peas or even bell peppers- for heartier fare.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: Store Lemon Rice in refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it stay in an airtight container. Reheat by pan or microwave to serve.
- Freezing: This dish is best consumed fresh, though it can be frozen for 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.