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Lemon Rice Recipe

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Lemon Rice Recipe (South Indian Style) – Easy, Tangy & Flavorful

Lemon Rice, also known as Nimbu Chawal or Chitranna, is a classic South Indian rice dish made with cooked rice, fresh lemon juice, aromatic spices, curry leaves, and peanuts. Light, refreshing, and bursting with citrus flavor, lemon rice is perfect for quick lunches, travel meals, lunchboxes, and temple prasadam.

This easy lemon rice recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and requires simple pantry ingredients.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Lemon Rice Recipe

  • Quick & easy – perfect for busy days
  • Naturally vegan & gluten-free
  • Light, refreshing, and digestion-friendly
  • Ideal for lunchbox, picnic, or fasting days
  • Authentic South Indian taste

🧾 Ingredients for Lemon Rice

For Rice

  • 1 cup rice (sona masoori or basmati)
  • 2 cups water
  • Salt to taste

For Tempering

  • 2 tbsp oil (sesame or vegetable oil)
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp chana dal
  • 1 tsp urad dal
  • 2 tbsp peanuts
  • 2–3 dried red chilies
  • 8–10 curry leaves
  • 1 green chili (finely chopped)
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder

For Flavor

  • Juice of 1 large lemon (or to taste)
  • Salt as required
  • Fresh coriander leaves (optional)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Lemon Rice – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  1. Rinse rice thoroughly.
  2. Cook rice with water and salt until grains are soft but separate.
  3. Spread cooked rice on a plate and let it cool completely.

Tip: Cooling prevents rice from becoming mushy when mixed.

Step 2: Prepare the Tempering

  1. Heat oil in a pan on medium flame.
  2. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.
  3. Add chana dal, urad dal, and peanuts; sauté until golden.
  4. Add dried red chilies, green chili, curry leaves, and turmeric powder.
  5. Mix well and turn off the heat.

Step 3: Mix Lemon Rice

  1. Add cooled rice to the tempering mixture.
  2. Gently mix to coat the rice evenly.
  3. Add salt if needed.
  4. Pour fresh lemon juice and mix well.
  5. Garnish with coriander leaves.

🍋 Perfect Lemon Rice Texture Tips

  • Always use cooled rice
  • Do not add lemon juice to hot rice
  • Adjust lemon juice slowly to avoid sourness
  • Sesame oil gives authentic South Indian aroma

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Lemon rice tastes best when served with:

  • Coconut chutney
  • Papad or potato chips
  • Curd (yogurt)
  • Pickle or lemon achar

It’s also a popular prasadam in South Indian temples.

🔄 Variations of Lemon Rice

  • Temple-Style Lemon Rice: Add roasted sesame powder
  • Healthy Lemon Rice: Use brown rice or millet
  • Kids-Friendly Lemon Rice: Reduce chilies, add cashews
  • Protein-Rich Version: Add boiled chickpeas or tofu

🥦 Health Benefits of Lemon Rice

  • Rich in Vitamin C
  • Light on the stomach
  • Helps improve digestion
  • Naturally dairy-free & vegan
  • Suitable for summer meals

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is lemon rice good for lunchbox?

Yes, lemon rice stays fresh longer and doesn’t spoil easily.

Can I store lemon rice?

Yes, refrigerate for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.

Which rice is best for lemon rice?

Sona masoori rice is traditional, but basmati also works well.

Can I skip peanuts?

Yes, peanuts are optional or can be replaced with cashews.

📌 Final Thoughts

This authentic South Indian lemon rice recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy rice dish. With its tangy aroma and crunchy tempering, lemon rice is comfort food at its best.

If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more easy Indian rice recipes, South Indian lunch ideas, and vegan meal options on our website.

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