Whenever my grandmother wanted to cook something quick, light, and refreshing, lemon rice was her first choice. This lemon rice recipe is bright, flavorful, and comforting in the simplest way. She always said lemon rice should wake up your taste buds, not feel heavy on the stomach.
It’s a perfect recipe for busy mornings, lunchboxes, or when you have leftover rice at home.
Why This Lemon Rice Recipe Works
This lemon rice recipe balances tanginess, crunch, and aroma beautifully. The tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and peanuts gives it depth, while lemon juice adds freshness. It’s naturally vegan and beginner-friendly.
Ingredients for Lemon Rice
- Cooked rice – 2 cups (cooled)
- Oil – 2 tbsp
- Mustard seeds – 1 tsp
- Peanuts – 2 tbsp
- Green chilli – 1 (chopped)
- Curry leaves – few
- Turmeric powder – ½ tsp
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp (or to taste)
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh coriander – for garnish
How to Make Lemon Rice
Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle. Add peanuts and roast until golden. Add green chilli and curry leaves.
Add turmeric and cooked rice. Mix gently so the rice doesn’t break. Turn off the flame and add lemon juice and salt. Mix well and garnish with coriander.
My grandmother always added lemon juice after switching off the flame — she said heat kills the freshness.
Tips from My Grandmother
- Always use cooled rice
- Add lemon juice at the end
- Don’t overmix the rice
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lemon rice recipe with curd, pickle, or papad. It pairs well with Dal Tadka Recipe and makes a great side with Vegetable Pulao Recipe for light meals.
Final Thoughts
This simple lemon rice recipe proves that everyday Indian food can be fresh, comforting, and full of life. Quick to make, easy to love — just the way my grandmother made it.
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