Meal Prep · South Indian
Lemon Rice
A vibrant, tangy, and aromatic South Indian rice dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
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Step-by-step- Ensure your rice is cooked and thoroughly cooled; spread it out on a plate to prevent stickiness. Gently break up any clumps with a fork.
- Heat the oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.
- Add urad dal and chana dal. Sauté, stirring continuously, until they turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- If using, add peanuts and fry until they are lightly roasted and crunchy.
- Add green chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low, add turmeric powder, and mix well quickly to prevent burning.
- Add the cooled cooked rice to the pan. Sprinkle with salt and gently toss everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the tempering and turmeric.
- Remove the pan from heat. Add the fresh lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves. Mix gently but thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed. Serve hot or warm with your favorite side dish.
Nutrition
Per serving| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
Storage & Freezer Guide
Make it last Refrigerator 3-4 days
Store leftover Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent drying.
Freezer Up to 1 month
While possible, freezing can alter the texture slightly. Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat Stovetop/Microwave
Reheat gently in a microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water until warmed through.
Chef’s Corner
- For the best texture, always use day-old or thoroughly cooled rice. Freshly cooked hot rice can become mushy when mixed.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies and lemon juice to suit your personal preference for spice and tanginess.
- Don’t overcook the rice; it should be firm yet fluffy, with each grain separate.
- A pinch of grated ginger can be added to the tempering for an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
- Garnish with roasted cashews or a few more fresh curry leaves for added texture and aroma.
