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Lemon Rice

Lemon Rice

Images on Rasoi Buddy are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the exact appearance of the final dish.

Lemon Rice, known as Chitranna, is a quick, zesty, and incredibly popular South Indian rice preparation. It features fluffy rice tossed in a vibrant tempering of mustard seeds, lentils, peanuts, and turmeric, finished with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This dish is celebrated for its bright yellow color and the crunchy texture provided by roasted peanuts and chana dal. It offers a perfect balance of savory tempering and refreshing citrus notes. It is a staple breakfast and travel food because of its simplicity and shelf-life. Best served hot or cold with a side of coconut chutney or potato roast.

Lemon Rice Recipe
Chitranna
South Indian Lemon Rice
Quick Lemon Rice Dish
Tempered Lemon Rice
Healthy Lemon Rice
Authentic Chitranna
Lunch Box Lemon Rice
Peanut Lemon Rice
Best Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Servings4 People
DifficultyEasy
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Ingredients

2 cups Cooked Rice (cooled)
2 large Lemons, juice extracted
1/4 cup Peanuts
1 tsp Mustard seeds
1 tsp Chana Dal
1 tsp Urad Dal
2 Green Chilies, slit
1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
A sprig of Fresh Curry Leaves
3 tbsp Oil
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Cooking Instructions

Tips & Secrets

  • The secret to fluffy Lemon Rice is using cooled, separate grains; never use hot or freshly cooked mushy rice.
  • Always turn off the heat before adding lemon juice to prevent the rice from turning bitter.
  • Using a generous amount of peanuts and lentils provides the characteristic crunch that defines this dish.
  • A pinch of sugar can be added along with the lemon juice to balance the tartness if preferred.

Nutritional Information(Per 300g)

Calories

240 kcal

Protein

4g

Fat

9g

Carbs

40g

Note: Nutritional values are professional estimates per standard serving (~200-250g / ml) and may vary based on ingredient quality and preparation methods.