If you’re craving a simple, zesty rice dish that’s ready in minutes, this South Indian Lemon Rice is the perfect choice! Made with premium Cooky Choice Rice, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a burst of fresh lemon juice, it’s a comfort food staple in South India – and now a must-have in your kitchen too!
What Is Lemon Rice?
Lemon rice (also known as Chitranna) is a traditional South Indian rice dish made with cooked rice, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and turmeric, and flavored with freshly squeezed lemon juice. It’s tangy, light, and packed with flavor – perfect for lunchboxes, festivals, or as a quick leftover rice recipe.
Ingredients
Serves: 2–3 people
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes
Base:
- 2 cups cooked Cooky Choice Rice (cooled)
- 2 tbsp oil (preferably coconut or sesame oil)
- 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp urad dal (optional)
- 1/2 tsp chana dal (optional)
- 1–2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 dry red chili, broken
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 sprig curry leaves
Flavor Boosters:
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts or cashews
- Salt, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (adjust to taste)
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
How to Make Lemon Rice – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Rice
- Use Cooky Choice Rice and cook until fluffy.
- Spread on a plate and let it cool slightly to prevent clumping.
Step 2: Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- In a pan, heat oil.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add urad dal, chana dal, and sauté until golden.
- Add green chili, red chili, and curry leaves. Sauté for 1 minute.
Step 3: Flavor the Rice
- Add turmeric and salt to the tempering. Mix well.
- Add the cooked rice and mix gently to coat every grain.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
- Turn off the heat. Add lemon juice and toss gently.
- Garnish with roasted peanuts and fresh coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your lemon rice with:
- Coconut chutney
- Fried papad or appalam
- Curd (yogurt) or raita
- Pickle for a spicy punch!
Tips for Perfect Lemon Rice
- Don’t add lemon juice while the rice is hot – wait until slightly cool to preserve the citrus flavor.
- Make it with leftover rice for best results.
- Use Cooky Choice Rice for long, separate grains and authentic taste.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re packing lunch, making a quick weeknight dinner, or preparing a dish for a religious offering or festival, South Indian Lemon Rice delivers flavor, simplicity, and tradition in every bite.
✅ Quick
✅ Vegan
✅ Gluten-Free
✅ One-Pan Wonder
