Lemon rice

Lemon Rice is a popular South Indian dish known for its vibrant flavor and simplicity. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. The primary ingredients include rice, lemon juice, turmeric, and a variety of spices and nuts, making it a colorful and nutritious option for any meal.

Ingredients

The basic ingredients for Lemon Rice include:

• Cooked rice - usually a non-sticky variety like Sona Masoori
• Lemon juice - freshly squeezed is preferred for the best flavor
• Turmeric powder - for color and health benefits
• Mustard seeds, Urad dal (split black lentils), and Chana dal (split chickpeas) - for tempering
• Curry leaves - for aroma
• Green chilies and Red chilies - for heat
• Asafoetida (Hing) - for digestion and additional flavor
• Peanuts or cashews - for crunch
• Salt - for taste
• Coriander leaves (cilantro) - for garnishing

Preparation

The preparation of Lemon Rice involves cooking the rice first and allowing it to cool. A tempering is then prepared by heating oil in a pan, adding mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, peanuts or cashews, and allowing them to crackle. Green chilies, red chilies, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida are then added. This mixture is sautéed briefly before adding turmeric powder and salt. The cooked rice is then mixed with this tempering, and lemon juice is added and mixed well. The dish is garnished with chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Cultural Significance

Lemon Rice is a staple in South Indian cuisine, particularly in the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. It is often prepared during festivals and special occasions. Due to its ease of preparation and the availability of ingredients, it is a popular choice for picnics and travel.

Nutritional Value

Lemon Rice is a good source of carbohydrates due to the rice. The addition of nuts provides protein and healthy fats, while the spices and lemon juice offer various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is a balanced dish that can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.

Variations

There are several variations of Lemon Rice across different regions. Some may include additional ingredients like grated coconut, ginger, or fresh peas. Each variation adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Rice is typically served with yogurt, pickle, or a side of papadums. It can also be accompanied by a salad or raita for a complete meal.

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