Lemon Rice, also known as Chitranna or Nimmakaya Pulihora, is a vibrant and flavorful South Indian dish that combines rice, lemon juice, and turmeric to create a refreshing and flavourful meal. The bright yellow hue comes from turmeric, while the tangy flavour is courtesy of fresh lemon juice. One of the highlights of this dish is its ability to stay flavorful, even at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for packed lunches or picnics....
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Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a deep pot, bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Add turmeric powder, salt, and 1 tbsp of oil.
Stir in the rinsed rice, lower the heat, and cook until fully done.
Drain any excess water, fluff the rice, and set it aside to cool completely.
Heat ¼ cup of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the raw peanuts and fry until golden and crunchy. Remove the peanuts and set them aside.
Next, roast the cashews in the same oil until lightly golden. Set them aside with the peanuts.
In the same skillet, add mustard seeds and allow them to crackle.
Add the dry red chillies, bay leaf, green chillies, and curry leaves. Sauté briefly until fragrant.
Once the tempering is ready, gently fold in the cooled rice.
Add salt, roasted peanuts, and cashews.
Pour the lemon juice over the rice and mix gently.
Cover the pan and let the rice simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice if needed.
Serve Lemon Rice on its own or pair it with papad and a side of plain yogurt for a complete meal.
Leftover rice works perfectly for this recipe, as the grains are less sticky.
Adjust the amount of chillies, salt, and lemon juice to match your taste preferences.
How long can I store Lemon Rice in the fridge?
You can store Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It's perfect for meal prep and makes for a quick lunch option!
Can I make Lemon Rice without peanuts and cashews?
Absolutely! If you need to avoid peanuts and cashews, you can substitute them with roasted chickpeas or moong dal for added crunch and texture.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Lemon Rice?
Lemon Rice pairs wonderfully with papad, plain yogurt, coconut chutney, or a tangy pickle. These sides enhance the dish's flavors and create a balanced meal.
Is Lemon Rice suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
Yes, Lemon Rice is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure that any sides you serve are also compliant.
How can I adjust the spiciness and tanginess of Lemon Rice?
You can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer green chillies and dry red chillies. For tanginess, simply increase or decrease the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
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