Lemon Rice 

Lemon Rice is a quintessential South Indian mixed rice variety that’s both flavorful and simple to make. This dish is a staple in South Indian households and is often prepared as a quick meal, a lunchbox favorite, or during festive occasions. Its tangy, zesty flavor comes from freshly squeezed lemon juice, which is mixed with perfectly cooked rice and tempered with aromatic spices.

This easy-to-make dish requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy mornings or when you want a light, refreshing meal. The beauty of Lemon Rice lies in its simplicity and versatility—it pairs well with a variety of sides like papad, pickles, or coconut chutney.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Rice

1. Rice Texture: Use cooked rice that is fluffy and non-sticky. Leftover rice works best, but freshly cooked rice cooled to room temperature will also do.

2. Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best tangy flavor. Add it at the end to retain its freshness.

3. Tempering Ingredients: Curry leaves, green chilies, and mustard seeds are key to enhancing the flavor. Adjust the chilies based on your spice preference.

4. Turmeric Powder: A pinch of turmeric gives the rice its signature yellow color and a subtle earthy flavor.

5. Add-ons: Cashews or peanuts can be added for crunch. Grated coconut can also be used for a mildly sweet flavor variation.

6. Balancing Flavors: Taste and adjust the salt and lemon juice to balance the tanginess with other flavors.

Lemon Rice is more than just a quick meal—it’s a burst of tangy, citrusy flavors that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a festive occasion, this traditional South Indian recipe never fails to impress. Pair it with a side of pickle, coconut chutney, or crispy papad for the ultimate flavor combination.

Try this simple recipe today and enjoy the zesty goodness of traditional Lemon Rice!

Ingredients

Cooked rice-1 cup

Lemon juice-4 tbsps

Mustard seeds-1/2 tsp

Urud dhal-1 tsp

Bengal gram dhal-1 tsp

Green chillies-1 chopped finely

Turmeric powder-1/4 tsp

Curry leaves few

Salt-to taste

Gingelly oil-1 tbsp
Peanuts/ cashews-2 Tbsps

Method

👉Heat oil in a kadai add mustard seeds, urud dhal, bengal gram dhal ,curry leaves and green chillies, cashews and saute until the dhals are golden brown colour.

👉Add turmeric powder,lemon juice,salt to it and immediately switch off the gas.

👉Now add this lemon mixture to cooked rice mix well and serve.

Preparation time-20 mins

Serves-4