Recipe for Tiffin Post Date: 2024-10-04 11:03:21

Lemon rice is not only a flavorful and refreshing dish but also offers several health benefits. The tangy lemon flavor combined with aromatic spices and crunchy peanuts makes this dish irresistible and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 1 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1-2 green chilies (sliced)
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup peanuts
• 1/4 cup cashews (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
   • Cook the rice according to your usual method and let it cool. It’s best to use slightly old or cooled rice to prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
2. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Temper the Spices:
   • Add mustard seeds to the hot oil. When they begin to splutter, add the urad dal and chana dal. Fry until they turn golden brown.
   • Add the sliced green chilies, curry leaves, and turmeric powder. Stir and cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
4. Add Peanuts and Cashews:
   • Add the peanuts (and cashews, if using) to the pan. Fry them until they are golden and crunchy.
5. Mix in the Rice:
   • Add the cooled cooked rice to the pan. Gently mix to combine, ensuring that the rice is well-coated with the turmeric and spices. Be careful not to break the rice grains.
6. Add Lemon Juice:
   • Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the rice. Add salt to taste and mix well to ensure the lemon juice is evenly distributed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot or at room temperature.

Health Benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants:
   • Lemon Juice: High in Vitamin C, lemons help boost the immune system and have antioxidant properties that protect the body from free radicals.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
   • Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
3. Heart Health:
   • Peanuts and Cashews: These nuts are good sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which contribute to heart health. They also provide essential nutrients like magnesium and potassium.
4. Digestive Health:
   • Curry Leaves: Known for their digestive properties, curry leaves can help improve digestion and relieve indigestion.
5. Protein and Fiber:
   • Urad Dal and Chana Dal: These lentils are rich in protein and fiber, aiding in digestion and providing sustained energy.
6. Energy Boost:
   • Rice: A good source of carbohydrates, rice provides energy and keeps you full longer.
7. Weight Management:
   • Low in Calories: Lemon rice is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for weight management when prepared with moderate amounts of oil and nuts.

Tips:

• Adjust the Lemon Juice: You can adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preference.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, you can include lightly cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Tiffin Box: Let the lemon rice cool to room temperature before packing it into a tiffin box to avoid condensation.
• Serving Suggestions: Lemon rice pairs well with plain yogurt or a simple raita.

This easy lemon rice recipe is perfect for a quick meal or a refreshing side dish. Its vibrant color, zesty flavor, and numerous health benefits make it a wholesome addition to your diet. Enjoy!