Lemon Rice with Peanuts Recipe (South Indian Style)
Lemon Rice with Peanuts Recipe (South Indian Style) 🍋🥜
Lemon Rice with Peanuts, also known as Chitranna in South India, is a quick, flavorful dish made with cooked rice, fresh lemon juice, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic tempering. It’s a perfect balance of tangy, nutty, and mildly spicy flavors—ideal for lunchboxes, travel meals, or light dinners.
🔍 Why This Lemon Rice Recipe is Perfect
- ✅ Ready in under 20 minutes
- ✅ Uses simple pantry ingredients
- ✅ Vegan & gluten-free
- ✅ Perfect for meal prep
- ✅ Great way to use leftover rice
🛒 Ingredients for Lemon Rice with Peanuts
- 2 cups cooked rice (cooled)
- 2 tbsp oil (preferably sesame oil)
- 1/3 cup peanuts
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal (optional)
- 1–2 green chilies (slit)
- 8–10 curry leaves
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Lemon Rice Recipe
🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Cook rice and let it cool completely. Use separate grains for best texture.
🔹 Step 2: Roast the Peanuts
Heat oil in a pan and fry peanuts until golden and crunchy. Remove and set aside.
🔹 Step 3: Make the Tempering
In the same pan, add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add urad dal, green chilies, and curry leaves.
🔹 Step 4: Add Spices
Add turmeric powder and salt. Mix well.
🔹 Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked rice and roasted peanuts. Mix gently to coat evenly.
🔹 Step 6: Add Lemon Juice
Turn off the heat and add fresh lemon juice. Mix well.
🔹 Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Top with coriander leaves and serve fresh.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Rice
- ✔️ Always add lemon juice after turning off heat to retain flavor
- ✔️ Use cold rice to avoid mushiness
- ✔️ Add a pinch of sugar to balance tanginess (optional)
- ✔️ Sesame oil enhances authentic South Indian taste
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with papad or roasted appalam
- Pair with coconut chutney or pickle
- Pack in lunchboxes for a fresh meal
- Enjoy as a light dinner or snack
❓ FAQs About Lemon Rice with Peanuts
1. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes! In fact, leftover rice works best for this recipe.
2. How do I store lemon rice?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Avoid reheating too much.
3. Can I skip peanuts?
Yes, but peanuts add crunch and authentic flavor.
4. Is lemon rice healthy?
Absolutely! It’s light, vegan, and rich in nutrients from peanuts and lemon.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Yes, you can add carrots, peas, or capsicum for variation.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Lemon Rice with Peanuts is one of the easiest and most satisfying Indian recipes you can make at home. With its refreshing citrus flavor and crunchy texture, it’s a go-to dish for busy days and quick meals. Once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
