Spiced Lemon Rice
Bright, zesty, and packed with bold flavors, Spiced Lemon Rice is the ultimate comfort dish with a South Indian twist. Fluffy basmati rice is infused with vibrant turmeric, earthy cumin, and aromatic mustard seeds, while fresh curry leaves and a hint of green chili add an irresistible depth of flavor. A generous drizzle of tangy lemon juice brings a refreshing citrus kick, perfectly balanced by the crunch of roasted peanuts and the freshness of chopped cilantro. Ready in just 25 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is a perfect side dish or standalone meal, pairing beautifully with yogurt, pickles, or your favorite protein. Perfect for busy weeknights or to elevate your dinner spread, Spiced Lemon Rice is a delicious way to add a burst of sunshine to your table!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 whole Green chili, finely chopped
- 10 leaves Fresh curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and 1 teaspoon of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the hot oil. Let them splutter for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Stir in the chopped green chili, fresh curry leaves, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet and gently toss with the spiced oil until the rice is evenly coated with the turmeric and spices. Be careful not to break the rice grains.
Drizzle the lemon juice over the rice and mix well. Adjust salt to taste if necessary.
Sprinkle the roasted peanuts and chopped cilantro on top before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish or as a light main course with yogurt or pickles on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
399 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.2 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.9 g | 10% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2386 mg | 104% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60.8 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.7 g | ||
| Protein | 14.3 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 145 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 6.4 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 389 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.
