Zesty Lemon Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Delight You’ll Love

Lemon rice is a vibrant, zesty dish that dances on your palate with its bright flavors and tantalizing aroma. Imagine the sun shining down on a picnic while you savor each bite, as the lemony goodness wraps around fluffy grains of rice like a warm hug.

Every time I whip up lemon rice, I’m transported to family gatherings where laughter fills the air and delicious aromas beckon from the kitchen. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner, this dish always steals the show with its refreshing zing and delightful crunch.

I remember one memorable summer afternoon when I served this lemon rice at a picnic. Everyone was raving about how delicious it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Long-Grain Rice: Use basmati or jasmine for a fragrant base that absorbs flavors well.

• Fresh Lemons: Choose bright, firm lemons for maximum juiciness and zest.

• Turmeric Powder: This gives the rice its vibrant yellow color and an earthy flavor.

• Curry Leaves: Fresh curry leaves add an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.

• Roasted Peanuts: These provide a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the rice.

• Mustard Seeds: These seeds add a pop of flavor; let them sizzle for best results.

• Green Chilies: Adjust the heat level with these; they bring warmth without overpowering other flavors.

• Salt: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preference.

• Cilantro Leaves: Use fresh cilantro as a garnish for added freshness and color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Cook in boiling salted water for about 15 minutes until fluffy.

Sauté Aromatics: In a pan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot, toss in 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds until they start popping and release their nutty aroma.

Add Spice and Flavor: Stir in 10-12 curry leaves and 1-2 chopped green chilies. Sauté these ingredients until they become fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Cooked Rice and Seasoning: Gently fold in the cooked rice with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly to coat each grain evenly.

Add Lemon Juice and Peanuts : Squeeze in juice from 2 fresh lemons and stir in half a cup of roasted peanuts for crunch. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Garnish and Serve : Top with freshly chopped cilantro before serving warm or at room temperature, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Now you have a delightful plate of lemon rice ready to impress your family or friends! Enjoy every bite filled with sunshine!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the rice first, then sauté the mustard seeds and spices before mixing everything together for a flavorful finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize lemon rice with nuts, peas, or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor that suits your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lemon rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

I remember the first time I made lemon rice for my friends—it was a hit! They went back for seconds and even thirds, asking for my secret ingredient. I laughed and said it was just love…and lots of lemon!

FAQ

What type of rice is best for lemon rice?

Basmati or jasmine rice works wonderfully due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.

Can I make lemon rice vegan?

Absolutely! Just use oil instead of ghee or butter to keep it plant-based.

How can I make lemon rice spicier?

Add chopped green chilies or red chili powder during cooking for an extra kick!

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Lemon Rice

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Lemon rice is a bright and refreshing dish that combines fluffy grains of rice with zesty lemon, aromatic spices, and a delightful crunch from roasted peanuts. Perfect for any occasion, this quick and easy recipe adds a burst of flavor to your meal, whether served as a main course or a side dish. With its sunny yellow color and tangy taste, lemon rice is sure to impress family and friends alike!

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 10–12 fresh curry leaves
• 1–2 green chilies (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt (to taste)
• Juice of 2 fresh lemons
• ½ cup roasted peanuts
• Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until clear. Cook in boiling salted water for about 15 minutes until fluffy; drain.
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat and add mustard seeds. Let them pop.
3. Add curry leaves and chopped green chilies; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Fold in the cooked rice along with turmeric powder and salt, mixing well.
5. Squeeze in lemon juice and stir in roasted peanuts; adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg