Lemon Rice – Quick & Easy South Indian Comfort Food

Looking for a quick Indian lunch recipe that’s light, tangy, and ready in minutes? This lemon rice recipe is a traditional South Indian dish made with leftover rice, fresh lemon juice, and simple tempering. It’s a perfect easy Indian meal for busy moms, bachelors, or anyone craving comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Rice

Uses leftover rice – perfect for next-day meals.

Naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Ready in under 20 minutes.

A staple in many Indian households and loved across age groups.

Great for lunchboxes, picnics, or travel food.

Ingredients for Lemon Rice

2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled or leftover)

1 tbsp oil (sesame or any neutral oil)

1/2 tsp mustard seeds

1/2 tsp urad dal (optional but traditional)

1–2 dry red chilies

1–2 green chilies (slit)

1/4 tsp turmeric powder

1 sprig curry leaves

Juice of 1 medium-sized lemon

Salt to taste

Chopped coriander for garnish

Roasted peanuts or cashews (optional)

How to Make Lemon Rice – Step by Step

1. Cook the rice:

Use freshly steamed or leftover rice. Make sure it's cooled completely to avoid sticking.

2. Prepare the tempering:

In a pan, heat oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add urad dal, red chilies, green chilies, curry leaves, and turmeric. Sauté for 1–2 minutes on medium heat.

3. Mix rice:

Add the rice and salt. Gently mix without breaking the grains.

4. Add lemon juice:

Turn off the flame. Add fresh lemon juice and mix well. Taste and adjust salt or tanginess.

5. Garnish and serve:

Top with coriander leaves and roasted peanuts or cashews.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot with curd (yogurt), pickle, or papad.

Packs well for Indian lunchboxes.

Pair with a simple coconut chutney for a complete South Indian meal.

Tips for the Best Lemon Rice

Always use cooled rice for best texture.

Add lemon juice only after turning off the heat to avoid bitterness.

Adjust chilies depending on your spice preference.

Lemon rice is one of those easy Indian recipes that never fails to comfort. Whether you're short on time or energy, this dish is a savior. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite quick rice recipe.

Have you tried lemon rice before? Let me know your version in the comments below!