Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add some zesty flavor to your rice, then lemon rice is the perfect recipe for you. Lemon rice is a popular Indian dish that is bursting with tangy citrus flavors. And the best part? You can make it right in your rice cooker!
With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform plain rice into a bright and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. The lemon juice adds a refreshing kick, while the fragrant spices and herbs elevate the taste to a whole new level.
Not only is lemon rice delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or even enjoy it on its own as a light and satisfying lunch. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover rice you may have in your fridge.
Ingredients for Lemon Rice
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• 1 cup of rice |
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• 2 cups of water |
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• 2 tablespoons of oil |
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• 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds |
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• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds |
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• 1 teaspoon of urad dal (split black gram) |
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• 1 teaspoon of chana dal (Bengal gram) |
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• 1 pinch of asafoetida (hing) |
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• 8-10 curry leaves |
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• 2-3 green chilies, chopped |
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• 1/4 cup of peanuts |
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• 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder |
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• Salt to taste |
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• Juice of 1-2 lemons |
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• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing |
Steps to Cook Lemon Rice
Follow these simple steps to cook lemon rice using a rice cooker:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove any excess starch.
2. Add the rinsed rice to the rice cooker along with water in the recommended ratio.
3. Close the lid and select the “Cook” or “White Rice” setting on your rice cooker.
4. While the rice is cooking, heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
5. Add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chili to the pan and sauté for a minute.
6. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown.
7. Squeeze the juice of fresh lemons into the pan and mix well.
8. Add turmeric powder, salt, and cooked rice to the pan.
9. Gently mix the rice with the lemon mixture until all the ingredients are well combined.
10. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
11. Let the lemon rice sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
12. Serve the lemon rice hot as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite accompaniments.
Enjoy your homemade lemon rice!
Tips for Cooking Lemon Rice
When it comes to cooking lemon rice in a rice cooker, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
1. Use fresh lemons: The key to getting a vibrant lemon flavor in your rice is to use fresh lemons. Squeeze the juice from the lemons just before adding it to the rice cooker.
2. Adjust the amount of lemon juice: The amount of lemon juice you use can vary depending on your taste preferences. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more as needed.
3. Saute the rice: Before adding the rice to the rice cooker, you can sauté it in some oil or butter. This will give the rice a slightly nutty flavor and help prevent it from becoming mushy.
4. Add aromatics: To enhance the flavor of the lemon rice, you can add some aromatics like onions, garlic, or ginger. Sauté them before adding the rice for an extra kick of flavor.
5. Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the rice cooker and avoid overcooking the rice. Overcooked rice can become mushy and lose its texture.
6. Let it rest: After the rice is done cooking, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will result in a more flavorful and cohesive dish.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and refreshing lemon rice dish using your rice cooker. Experiment with different amounts of lemon juice and aromatics to find the perfect balance for your taste buds. Enjoy!
Serving and Enjoying Lemon Rice
Once your lemon rice is cooked to perfection in the rice cooker, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious and refreshing dish.
Here are some tips for serving and enjoying your lemon rice:
1. Serve it hot:
Lemon rice is best enjoyed when it is served hot. Make sure to serve it immediately after it is cooked to preserve its flavors and fragrance.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs:
To enhance the taste and presentation of your lemon rice, you can garnish it with some fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness to your dish.
3. Pair it with a side dish:
Lemon rice can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal, but it also pairs well with some side dishes. You can serve it with yogurt, pickle, or even a simple raita to add some extra flavor and texture to your meal.
4. Enjoy it as a main or side dish:
Lemon rice can be served as a main dish for a light and refreshing meal, or as a side dish to accompany other Indian vegetarian dishes. It goes well with curries, dals, and even grilled meats.
5. Pack it for lunch or picnics:
Lemon rice is a great option to pack for lunch or take on picnics. It is easy to carry, does not require heating, and tastes delicious even when served cold. It can be a refreshing and satisfying meal on the go.
By following these tips, you can serve and enjoy your lemon rice to its fullest. Whether you are eating it at home or taking it on the go, this versatile dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its tangy and aromatic flavors.
FAQ
What is lemon rice?
Lemon rice is a popular South Indian dish made with cooked rice, lemon juice, and various spices.
How do you cook lemon rice in a rice cooker?
To cook lemon rice in a rice cooker, first wash and cook the rice as you normally would. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and set it aside. In a pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chillies. Then add turmeric powder and cooked rice, followed by lemon juice and salt. Mix well and let it cook for a few minutes. Your lemon rice is ready!
Can I use leftover rice to make lemon rice?
Yes, you can definitely use leftover rice to make lemon rice. Just make sure to break up any clumps of rice before adding it to the pan.
What can I serve with lemon rice?
Lemon rice can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. It pairs well with yogurt, pickle, or raita. You can also serve it with a lentil curry or any other vegetable curry of your choice.
Can I add vegetables to lemon rice?
Yes, you can add vegetables to lemon rice to make it more nutritious and flavorful. Common vegetables that are added to lemon rice include peas, carrots, beans, and corn. Simply cook the vegetables separately and mix them with the rice along with the lemon juice and spices.
