Ingredients

For Lemon Rice
2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled)
2 tbsp oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp urad dal
1 tsp chana dal
1–2 dried red chilies
1 green chili (slit)
8–10 curry leaves
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Juice of 1 large lemon
2 tbsp roasted peanuts
Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

For Serving With Curd
1 cup plain curd (whisked)
Pinch of salt
Optional: chopped cucumber or coriander

Step-By-Step Method

Step 1: Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter

Step 2: Add urad dal, chana dal, red chilies, green chili, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute until dals turn golden

Step 3: Add turmeric and salt. Mix briefly and add cooked rice. Stir gently to combine without breaking the grains

Step 4: Switch off the heat and add lemon juice. Mix well and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to absorb flavors

Step 5: Add roasted peanuts and garnish with fresh coriander

Step 6: Serve warm or at room temperature with a bowl of curd on the side

Manish Tip: Always add lemon juice after turning off the heat to preserve its fresh flavor and prevent bitterness

Nutrition (Per Serving):