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About lemon Rice:
Lemon rice is very simple and easy to make. Even bachelors can prepare it easily. This is one of my favorite’s breakfast. So, prepare it following the recipe method. Make more tasty if you add favorite nuts to it like cashew. It is a popular South Indian dish known for its bright and tangy flavor. It’s made by mixing cooked rice with a tempering of spices, lemon juice, and sometimes other ingredients like nuts and vegetables.
Key Points for Making Lemon rice:
Here are some key points about lemon rice:
- Ingredients: The main ingredients for lemon rice are cooked rice, lemon juice, and a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other spices. Additional ingredients can include peanuts, chana dal, urad dal, green chilies, and grated coconut.
- Tempering: The tempering is a crucial step in making lemon rice. It typically includes mustard seeds, which add a nutty flavor, as well as other ingredients like curry leaves, chana dal, urad dal, and sometimes asafoetida. This tempering is heated in oil or ghee to release their flavors.
- Lemon Juice: The lemon juice is a key component that gives the dish its distinctive tangy flavor. It’s added towards the end of the cooking process to ensure that the acidity is not lost through prolonged heat exposure.
- Variations: While the basic recipe includes lemon juice, you can also find variations that incorporate ingredients like grated coconut, cashews, almonds, and even vegetables like peas or carrots. These additions can add texture, flavor, and nutritional value to the dish.
- Serving: This can be served on its own as a light meal, or as a side dish to complement other main courses. It’s often enjoyed with accompaniments like curd, pickles, or chutneys.
- Nutritional Value: It is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the rice. The addition of nuts and tempered ingredients like dals provides protein and healthy fats. The lemon juice adds a source of vitamin C. If vegetables are added, it can enhance the nutritional profile further.
- Cultural Significance: Lemon rice is a popular dish in South India and is often served during festivals, special occasions, or as a part of a traditional meal. It’s also a favorite choice for picnics and travel due to its portability and long shelf life.
Is lemon rice good for health?
Yes, its good for health. Lemon has many health benefits as improves digestion, nutrient rich, detox system.
- Rich in Carbohydrates: Rice, the main ingredient in lemon rice, is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the body with energy for daily activities and functions.
- Source of Essential Nutrients: Lemon rice contains ingredients such as rice, lemon juice, and spices, which contribute to the dish’s nutritional profile. Rice provides essential nutrients like manganese, magnesium, and B vitamins, while lemon juice adds vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids.
- Promotes Digestive Health: This dish often includes spices like turmeric, cumin, and mustard seeds, which have digestive properties. Turmeric, in particular, contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. These spices can help stimulate digestion and alleviate digestive discomfort.
- Boosts Immune System: Lemon juice, a key ingredient in lemon rice, is rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. Vitamin C helps protect cells from damage, promotes wound healing, and enhances the body’s ability to fight infections.
- Low in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol: It is typically low in saturated fat and cholesterol, especially if prepared with minimal oil and healthy cooking methods. This makes it a heart-healthy option compared to dishes high in saturated fats and cholesterol.
- Gluten-Free and Easily Digestible: Lemon rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Additionally, the dish is light and easily digestible, making it gentle on the stomach and suitable for those with digestive issues.
- Balanced and Nutritious Meal: When paired with protein-rich foods like Dals-lentils, yogurt, or grilled chicken, lemon rice can form a balanced and nutritious meal. The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and essential nutrients makes it a satisfying and wholesome option.
- May Aid in Weight Management: Lemon rice can be a part of a balanced diet and may support weight management when consumed in moderation. Its low-fat content and moderate calorie count make it a filling and satisfying meal option that can help prevent overeating.
While lemon rice offers several health benefits, it’s essential to consider portion sizes and ingredient choices to maximize its nutritional value and maintain overall health and well-being. Additionally, incorporating a variety of foods and nutrients into your diet is key to achieving optimal nutrition and health.
Overall, lemon rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s loved for its refreshing taste and simplicity of preparation. It’s a great option for those looking to add a burst of citrusy flavor to their meals.
Other Related Posts:
- Green Rice
- Katte Pongali
- Jeera Rice
- Veg Fried Rice
- Coconut Rice
- Tomato Rice
Lemon Rice Recipe Card:
Here’s a unique and flavorful recipe for Lemon Rice:
Tangy Lemon Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice or any long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 cup peanuts
- 2-3 green chilies slit lengthwise
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 8-10 curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice adjust to taste
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish optional
For the tempering:
- 1/4 cup grated coconut fresh or frozen, optional
- 1 tablespoon chana dal split chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon urad dal split black gram
- 2 dried red chilies broken into pieces
- A pinch of asafoetida hing
Instructions
- Cooking Rice:Wash the rice thoroughly and cook it in a large pot of boiling water until it's cooked. Drain the rice and spread it on a plate to cool. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Prepare the tempering: Heat oil in a pan on medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the cumin seeds, chana dal, urad dal, dried red chilies, and peanuts, Cashews. Fry until the dals turn golden brown.
- Add the asafoetida, green chilies, and curry leaves, turmeric powder. Sauté for another minute.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan. Gently mix everything together, making sure the tempering and spices are evenly distributed. Off the the flame
- Add lemon juice and salt to taste. Mix well. Adjust the lemon juice and salt according to your preference.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves (if using) and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition:
The nutritional values of lemon rice can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in a particular recipe. Here’s a general overview of the approximate nutritional values for a standard serving of lemon rice (about 1 cup, cooked):
Calories: 200-250 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 35-45g |
Protein: 4-6g |
Fat: 6-8g |
Fiber: 1-2g |
Sugars: 1-2g |
Vitamin C: 10-20% of the daily recommended intake |
Iron: 8-12% of the daily recommended intake |
Keep in mind that these values are rough estimates and can vary based on factors like the type of rice used, additional ingredients (such as nuts, vegetables, or coconut), and the specific quantities used in the recipe. Additionally, if you’re following a specific dietary plan or have specific nutritional needs, it’s advisable to calculate the exact values based on the specific ingredients and portions you use in your own recipe. This can be done using a nutrition calculator or consulting with a registered dietitian.