Lemon Rice is a simple, tangy South Indian rice dish made with cooked rice, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic tempering spices. It is widely prepared in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, where it is known as Chitranna or Nimmakaya Pulihora.
The dish is loved for its refreshing lemon flavor, vibrant yellow color from turmeric, and crunchy texture from peanuts and fried lentils.
It is often prepared with leftover rice, making it a quick and easy meal that can be ready in under 20 minutes.
📌 Quick Recipe Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Lemon Rice (Chitranna) |
| Cuisine | South Indian |
| Course | Lunch / Breakfast / Snack |
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 3–4 people |
| Difficulty | Easy |
✨ About Lemon Rice
Lemon rice is made by mixing cooked rice with a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, chilies, lentils, and peanuts, then finishing with fresh lemon juice for tanginess.
Turmeric powder gives the dish its bright yellow color, while peanuts add a crunchy texture.
Historically, similar lemon-flavored rice dishes were mentioned in ancient Indian texts from the 12th century, showing the long tradition of this recipe in South Indian cuisine.
🛒 Ingredients List
For Lemon Rice
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked basmati rice | 3 cups |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Oil or ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Urad dal | 1 tsp |
| Chana dal | 1 tsp |
| Peanuts | 2 tbsp |
| Curry leaves | 10–12 |
| Green chilli | 1–2 |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh coriander | For garnish |
These ingredients create the classic tangy, nutty, and slightly spicy flavor of South Indian lemon rice.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Method
Step 1 – Prepare the Rice
Cook basmati rice and let it cool completely so the grains remain separate.
Leftover rice works best for this recipe.
Step 2 – Prepare the Tempering
Heat oil in a pan.
Add:
- mustard seeds
- urad dal
- chana dal
Allow them to crackle.
Step 3 – Fry Peanuts & Spices
Add peanuts and fry until slightly golden.
Add:
- curry leaves
- green chilies
- turmeric powder
Sauté for about 30 seconds.
Step 4 – Add the Rice
Add the cooked rice and salt.
Mix gently so the rice absorbs the tempering flavors.
Step 5 – Add Lemon Juice
Turn off the heat and add fresh lemon juice.
Mix well.
(Adding lemon juice after turning off heat prevents bitterness.)
Step 6 – Garnish
Top with chopped coriander leaves and serve warm.
💡 Pro Cooking Tips
✔ Use cooled rice to avoid sticky lemon rice.
✔ Add lemon juice after cooking to keep the flavor fresh.
✔ Roast peanuts well for a crunchy texture.
✔ Use curry leaves for authentic South Indian aroma.
✔ Add cashews for a richer flavor.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
Lemon Rice tastes best with:
- Coconut Chutney
- Yogurt / Curd
- Papad
- Pickle (Achar)
- South Indian vegetable curry
It is also commonly packed in lunch boxes or served during festivals and temple offerings.
🧾 Nutrition Information (Approx)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250–300 kcal |
| Protein | 6–7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40–45 g |
| Fat | 8–10 g |
| Fiber | Moderate |
The combination of rice, peanuts, and spices makes lemon rice both filling and flavorful.
🎥 Watch Full Recipe Video
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1️⃣ Why does lemon rice taste bitter sometimes?
This usually happens if lemon juice is added while the rice is still cooking. Add it after turning off the heat.
2️⃣ Can lemon rice be made with leftover rice?
Yes. In fact, leftover rice works best for this dish.
3️⃣ Is lemon rice healthy?
Yes. It is light, easy to digest, and contains vitamins from lemon and peanuts.
4️⃣ What rice is best for lemon rice?
Basmati rice or any long-grain rice works well.
🧡 Final Thoughts
Lemon Rice is a simple, tangy, and refreshing South Indian rice dish that can be prepared quickly with basic ingredients. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic spices, and crunchy peanuts creates a flavorful meal perfect for lunch, breakfast, or travel meals.
Serve it warm with yogurt or chutney and enjoy the authentic taste of South Indian comfort food.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
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