Description
This Easy and Delicious Lemon Rice recipe is a quick, flavorful South Indian dish that combines fragrant basmati rice with zesty lemon juice, aromatic mustard seeds, curry leaves, and crunchy roasted peanuts. Perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side, it is ready in just 30 minutes and serves 4.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
- 2 medium lemons (juiced)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 10-12 fresh curry leaves
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts
- 2 green chilies (finely chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- 2 tbsp vegetable or coconut oil
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Cook the rice in boiling salted water for about 15 minutes or until it is tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes to allow it to steam and fluff up.
- Prepare the Tempering: Heat the vegetable or coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and fresh curry leaves. Sauté until the mustard seeds start crackling, releasing their aroma. Stir in the finely chopped green chilies and turmeric powder, cooking for about one minute to blend the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the roasted peanuts and cooked rice into the pan with the tempered spices. Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the mixture and mix everything thoroughly but carefully to avoid breaking the rice grains. Season with salt to taste and stir well to combine all flavors.
- Allow to Rest: Let the lemon rice sit covered for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve warm as a standalone dish or paired with a side of yogurt or pickle.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor and aroma.
- Adjust the number of green chilies according to your preferred spice level.
- Roasted peanuts add a wonderful crunch but you can substitute with cashews or omit for a nut-free option.
- Ensure the rice is fluffy and not overcooked to maintain the texture of the dish.
- This lemon rice can be prepared ahead and served cold or reheated gently.
