South Indian Lemon Rice is a bright, flavorful and easy rice dish made with cooked rice, lemon juice, peanuts, curry leaves and a simple tempering of spices. It is perfect for breakfast, lunch boxes, quick dinners or using leftover rice.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Rice
- Ready in about 20 minutes.
- Simple pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Great for lunch boxes and travel.
- Easy way to turn leftover rice into a tasty meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice, cooled
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon urad dal
- 1 teaspoon chana dal
- 2 tablespoons peanuts
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 dried red chili
- 10–12 curry leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
How to Make South Indian Lemon Rice
1. Prepare the rice: Cook rice until fluffy and let it cool completely. Separate the grains gently so the finished lemon rice does not become mushy.
2. Make the tempering: Heat oil in a wide pan. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle. Add urad dal, chana dal and peanuts. Fry until lightly golden.
3. Add the aromatics: Add green chilies, dried red chili and curry leaves. Stir carefully for a few seconds, then add turmeric powder.
4. Add rice: Add the cooled rice and salt. Mix gently until the turmeric and tempering are evenly distributed. Cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes.
5. Finish with lemon: Turn off the heat and let the rice cool slightly. Add fresh lemon juice and mix gently. Taste and adjust lemon juice or salt if needed.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Rice
- Use cooled, non-sticky rice for the best texture.
- Add lemon juice after turning off the heat for a fresh flavor.
- Do not use too much turmeric; a small amount gives the rice a beautiful yellow color.
- Adjust green chilies and lemon juice to your taste.
What to Serve With Lemon Rice
Serve lemon rice with plain yogurt, cucumber raita, papad, pickle or a simple vegetable fry. It also makes an excellent lunch-box meal on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover rice?
Yes. Cooled leftover rice works especially well because the grains stay separate while mixing.
How long does lemon rice last?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 1–2 days for the best taste and texture.
Enjoy this simple South Indian Lemon Rice with your favorite side dish!