Lemon Rice I

Introduction

History

Lemon rice has its origins in South India, where it is a staple dish in many households. It is often served during festivals and special occasions, as well as a quick and easy meal option for everyday cooking.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.

- Make sure to mix the lemon juice well with the rice to evenly distribute the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon rice can be served with yogurt, pickle, or papad for a complete meal. It can also be paired with a side of vegetable curry or raita.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the rice until it is fluffy and separate before adding it to the lemon mixture.

- Toast the peanuts until they are golden brown for extra flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ghee instead of oil for a richer flavor.

- Substitute green chilies with red chili powder for a spicier kick.

Make Ahead Tips

Lemon rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the lemon rice with fresh cilantro leaves or lemon slices for a pop of color. Serve it in a colorful bowl for an eye-catching presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Lemon rice pairs well with grilled chicken, fish curry, or vegetable stir-fry. It can also be served with a side of dal or sambar for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover lemon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

310

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 1g

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 12mg

- Iron: 1mg

- Calcium: 23mg

Alergens

Peanuts

Summary

Lemon rice is a low-calorie dish that is rich in carbohydrates and healthy fats. It is a good source of vitamin C and iron.

Summary

Lemon rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With its tangy and spicy flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother.

I remember it like it was yesterday. My mother and I were rummaging through an old recipe book that had been passed down through generations. The pages were yellowed and fragile, filled with handwritten notes and faded pictures of delectable dishes. As we flipped through the pages, a worn piece of paper fell out, fluttering to the ground like a delicate butterfly.

Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a recipe for Lemon Rice. The ingredients were simple – rice, lemon, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a few other spices. The instructions were just as straightforward, promising a dish that was both tangy and aromatic.

Excited to try something new, my mother and I set to work. We measured out the rice, washed it until the water ran clear, and let it soak for a while. In a separate pan, we heated some oil and added the mustard seeds, waiting for them to pop and release their nutty aroma. Then came the curry leaves, sizzling and crackling in the hot oil.

Next, we added the rice, stirring it gently to coat each grain with the fragrant oil and spices. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a pinch of turmeric, and a sprinkle of salt completed the dish. As the rice cooked, the kitchen filled with the zesty scent of lemon and spices, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the rice was done, we fluffed it up with a fork and garnished it with a handful of chopped cilantro. The Lemon Rice was ready, a vibrant dish that looked as good as it smelled. We served it alongside some cooling cucumber raita and crispy papadums, creating a meal that was both comforting and satisfying.

That first taste of Lemon Rice was like a revelation. The tangy citrus flavors danced on my tongue, while the warm spices added depth and complexity to the dish. It was a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, a dish that showcased the beauty of Indian cuisine.

From that day on, Lemon Rice became a staple in our household. Whenever we had leftover rice, my mother would transform it into this flavorful dish, adding a touch of freshness to our meals. I, too, learned how to make it, perfecting the recipe over the years with my own little tweaks and adjustments.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, who were always impressed by its simplicity and deliciousness. They would ask me where I learned to make such a wonderful dish, and I would smile and tell them the story of how I discovered the recipe in an old, forgotten book.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, stirring a pot of Lemon Rice with memories of that first taste still fresh in my mind, I can't help but feel grateful for the legacy of cooking that has been passed down to me. Each recipe I have learned, each dish I have mastered, is a tribute to the generations of women who came before me, who taught me the joy of creating something delicious with love and care.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Lemon Rice, I raise my glass to those who have inspired me, to those who have shared their knowledge and passion for cooking, and to the simple, humble dish that has brought so much joy into my life. Cheers to Lemon Rice, a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart.

Categories

| Black Mustard Seed Recipes | Curry Leaf Recipes | Fresh Chile Pepper Recipes | Indian Recipes | Indian Vegetarian | Lemon Juice Recipes | Peanut Recipes | Rice Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients