Lemon Rice
Tamil-style turmeric rice tossed with lemon, peanuts, mustard tempering, and curry leaves.
For 1 serving
4 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water
- b.Boil in water for 12 minutes until tender but firm
- c.Drain excess water, fluff with a fork, and spread on a plate to cool
TIPCooling the rice prevents it from becoming mushy when tossed with the tempering. - 2
Step 2
- a.Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat
- b.Add mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter
- c.Add urad dal, chana dal, and peanuts, frying until golden brown
- 3
Step 3
- 4
Step 4
- a.Lower the heat and stir in turmeric powder and salt
- b.Add the cooled rice and fresh lemon juice, tossing gently to coat evenly
- c.Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped cilantro
TIPAlways add lemon juice after removing from heat to prevent a bitter taste.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, always use cooled, day-old rice. The lower moisture content prevents the dish from becoming sticky.
- 2Add lemon juice only after turning off the heat. Cooking lemon juice can make it taste bitter and reduces its fresh aroma.
- 3Roast the dals and peanuts on low to medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and become perfectly crunchy without burning.
- 4A pinch of sugar helps to balance the sourness of the lemon and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 5For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of grated ginger to the tempering along with the green chilies.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Lemon Rice
Sauté finely chopped carrots, green peas, or sweet corn along with the tempering before adding the rice for a more nutritious meal.
Coconut Lemon RiceCoconut Lemon Rice
Add 2-3 tablespoons of freshly grated coconut along with the coriander at the end for a richer flavor and texture.
Nutty VariationNutty Variation
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of roasted cashews along with the peanuts for an extra layer of crunch and richness.
High Fiber VersionHigh-Fiber Version
Substitute white rice with cooked brown rice or quinoa for a healthier, fiber-rich alternative.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Boosts Immunity
The generous amount of fresh lemon juice is a great source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system and protect against infections.
Aids Digestion
Traditional ingredients like hing (asafoetida) and curry leaves are well-known for their digestive properties, helping to reduce gas, bloating, and indigestion.
Provides Quick Energy
As a carbohydrate-rich dish, Lemon Rice provides a quick and easily digestible source of energy, making it an excellent choice for a fulfilling lunch.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Turmeric, a key spice in the tempering, contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that benefit overall health.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Lemon Rice (approximately 1 cup or 225g) contains around 280-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil and peanuts used.