Vietnamese Lemon Rice
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly fragrant, Vietnamese Lemon Rice is the perfect fusion of simplicity and vibrant flavors. Made with fluffy jasmine rice infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, this dish is elevated with aromatic sautéed garlic, herby cilantro, mint, and scallions for a refreshing twist. A touch of sugar perfectly balances the tangy citrus, while roasted peanuts add an optional crunchy garnish. Ready in just 35 minutes, this versatile recipe works as a vibrant side dish or a light, standalone entrée. Bursting with fresh ingredients and Southeast Asian flair, Vietnamese Lemon Rice is an easy way to transform weeknight dinners or complement your favorite mains with a pop of flavor.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Jasmine rice
- 2 cups Water
- 3 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 stalks Scallions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Roasted peanuts, crushed (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffy rice.
In a medium saucepan, combine the washed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps gently with a wooden spoon.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and salt to the rice, stirring well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Mix in the chopped scallions, cilantro, and mint, tossing everything together to combine. Remove from heat.
Transfer the rice to a serving platter and garnish with roasted peanuts if desired for added crunch.
Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy on its own for a light and refreshing meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
797 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 34.4 g | 44% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.0 g | 25% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2427 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 112.3 g | 41% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.0 g | ||
| Protein | 14.2 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 133 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 428 mg | 9% | |
*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.
