Delicious Lemon Rice Recipe: A Burst of Tangy Flavor






Are you looking to add a zesty twist to your regular rice dish? Look no further! Lemon rice, a popular South Indian delicacy, is a flavorful and refreshing alternative to plain rice that will tickle your taste buds and leave you craving for more. This simple yet mouthwatering recipe combines the tanginess of fresh lemons with the aromatic spices, creating a delightful culinary experience that you won't be able to resist. Let's dive into the world of lemon rice and learn how to prepare this delightful dish.


Ingredients:

- 1 cup basmati rice (you can use any long-grain rice as well)

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/4 cup raw peanuts

- 1/4 cup split black gram (urad dal)

- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

- 8-10 curry leaves

- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)

- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

- Salt to taste

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust according to your taste)

- 1 tablespoon finely chopped coriander leaves (optional, for garnish)


Instructions:


1. Cook the Rice:

   Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 20 minutes. Then, cook the rice with 1 ¾ cups of water until it's perfectly done. Spread the cooked rice on a plate or a wide vessel and let it cool down. This step ensures that the rice grains stay separate and fluffy.


2. Tempering:

   In a large pan or a wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they start to splutter, add the raw peanuts and split black gram (urad dal). Fry them until they turn golden brown. The peanuts add a delightful crunch to the lemon rice.


3. Infuse Aromatics:

   Lower the heat and add the asafoetida (hing), curry leaves, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute or until the curry leaves turn crispy and release their aroma.


4. Add Turmeric and Lemon Juice:

   Now, add the turmeric powder and give it a quick stir, ensuring the spices don't burn. Turn off the heat and immediately add the lemon juice. The turmeric adds a vibrant color to the dish, while the lemon juice provides the tangy flavor that makes this dish so special.


5. Mix the Rice:

   Gently fluff the cooled rice with a fork and add it to the pan with the prepared tempering and spices. Mix everything thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated with the lemony goodness.


6. Adjust Seasoning:

   Season the lemon rice with salt, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the lemon juice and salt as per your preference. The tangy flavor should be balanced with the right amount of salt to enhance the overall taste.


7. Garnish and Serve:

   If you desire, garnish the lemon rice with finely chopped coriander leaves to add a pop of green color and freshness. Serve the lemon rice hot as a standalone dish, or pair it with some yogurt, pickle, or papadums for a complete and delectable meal.



Tips:


- You can customize this lemon rice recipe by adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for a more wholesome and nutritious version.

- For an extra crunch, you can also add roasted cashew nuts or sliced almonds to the rice.

- Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of green chilies you use.

- Ensure that the rice is completely cooled before mixing it with the lemon juice to prevent the rice grains from becoming mushy.

- Leftover lemon rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.


Lemon rice is not only a great way to use up leftover rice but also a delightful addition to picnics, potlucks, and lunchboxes. It's a flavorful and vibrant dish that will transport your taste buds to the sunny streets of South India. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the tangy goodness, and savor the taste of this lip-smacking lemon rice!