Golden Lemon Rice
Brighten your table with the vibrant and flavorful Golden Lemon Rice—a simple yet irresistible dish that combines fragrant basmati rice, zesty lemon juice, and a golden hue from turmeric. Infused with the aromatic crunch of mustard seeds, crispy curry leaves, and a hint of spice from green chili, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy and earthy flavors. Optional roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch, while fresh cilantro offers a refreshing garnish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gluten-free, vegan-friendly recipe is perfect as a light main dish or a flavorful side to complement your favorite curries or stir-fries.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups Water
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
- 10 leaves Curry leaves
- 1 whole Green chili
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Roasted peanuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. This removes surface starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir to mix, bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds to the hot oil and allow them to pop. Once they start to pop, add 10 curry leaves and 1 whole green chili (slit lengthwise). Sauté for about 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Stir in the cooked rice and mix gently to ensure the flavor and vibrant yellow color are evenly distributed. Be careful not to break the rice grains.
Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of salt to the rice. Toss everything together, ensuring the lemon juice coats the rice evenly.
If desired, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts over the rice for added crunch and texture.
Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro just before serving for a touch of freshness and color.
Serve warm as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite curry or vegetable stir-fry.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
605 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.7 g | 47% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.3 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2454 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60.5 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.8 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.5 g | ||
| Protein | 12.9 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 97 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 4.8 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 399 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
