How long can I store leftovers?

Store the lemon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, lemon rice can be made a day ahead; reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute chana dal with?

You can use yellow split peas if chana dal is unavailable.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Add more dried red chilies or sprinkle with red chili powder.

Can lemon rice be frozen?

It is best to enjoy fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Defrost completely before reheating.

South Indian Lemon Rice with Chana Dal and Curry Leaves

Name: South Indian Lemon Rice with Chana Dal and Curry Leaves
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Basmati rice; Water; Salt; Oil; Mustard seeds; Chana dal; Urad dal; Asafoetida; Curry leaves; Dried red chilies; Fresh lemon juice; Turmeric powder; Salt; Roasted peanuts; Fresh cilantro

A tangy and vibrant rice dish with a hint of spice.

This traditional South Indian dish combines lemony zest with earthy spices and chana dal for a deliciously refreshing and wholesome meal.

45 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Rice

Basmati rice

2 cups, rinsed and soaked

Water

4 cups

Salt

1 teaspoon

For the Tempering

Oil

2 tablespoons (coconut or sunflower)

Mustard seeds

1 teaspoon

Chana dal

2 tablespoons, soaked for 30 mins

Urad dal

1 teaspoon

Asafoetida

A pinch

Curry leaves

10–12 fresh

Dried red chilies

2–3, broken

For the Lemon Flavor

Fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup

Turmeric powder

1/2 teaspoon

Salt

To taste

For Garnish

Roasted peanuts

1 tablespoon

Fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon, chopped

Preparation

Preparing the Rice

Rinse the rice

Rinse the basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear.

Soak the rice

Soak the rice for 30 minutes, then drain.

Cook the rice

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a pot, add salt and the soaked rice, and cook until just done. Drain and set aside.

Making the Tempering

Heat the oil

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Add mustard seeds

Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.

Sauté dals

Add the chana dal and urad dal, and sauté until golden.

Add asafoetida and curry leaves

Add asafoetida and curry leaves.

Cooking Process

Combine rice and tempering

Carefully fold the tempered spices into the cooked rice.

Flavor with lemon

Pour in the lemon juice, sprinkle turmeric, and mix gently to coat evenly.

Adjust seasoning

Adjust salt to taste, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully together.

Plating & Serving