🍋 Quick Lemon Rice (15-Minute South Indian Style)

🌼 Introduction

This quick and easy lemon rice is a simple South Indian comfort dish made with cooked rice, fresh lemon juice, and mild tempering. It is light, refreshing, and perfect for busy mornings, lunch boxes, or quick dinners. With minimal ingredients and just 15 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is beginner-friendly and full of flavor.

⏱ Time Details

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2–3 people

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (cooled)

• 1½ tablespoons oil

• ½ teaspoon mustard seeds

• ½ teaspoon urad dal

• ½ teaspoon chana dal

• 8–10 peanuts

• 1–2 green chillies (slit)

• 1 sprig curry leaves

• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Method

1. Heat oil in a pan.

2. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.

3. Add urad dal, chana dal, and peanuts. Fry until golden brown.

4. Add green chillies and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.

5. Add turmeric powder and mix well.

6. Add cooked rice and salt. Gently mix without breaking the rice.

7. Turn off the flame and add fresh lemon juice.

8. Mix well and garnish with coriander leaves.

🍽 How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.

• Tastes best with coconut chutney, pickle, or plain curd.

• Ideal for lunch boxes and travel meals.

🌿 Why It Is Good for Health

✔ Light and easy to digest
✔ Rich in Vitamin C from lemon
✔ Peanuts provide protein and healthy fats
✔ Uses minimal oil
✔ No heavy spices