Golden Lemon Rice

Brighten your table with the vibrant and flavorful Golden Lemon Rice—a simple yet irresistible dish that combines fragrant basmati rice, zesty lemon juice, and a golden hue from turmeric. Infused with the aromatic crunch of mustard seeds, crispy curry leaves, and a hint of spice from green chili, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy and earthy flavors. Optional roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch, while fresh cilantro offers a refreshing garnish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gluten-free, vegan-friendly recipe is perfect as a light main dish or a flavorful side to complement your favorite curries or stir-fries.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
• 10 leaves Curry leaves
• 1 whole Green chili
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Roasted peanuts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. This removes surface starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir to mix, bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.

Step 3

While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.

Step 4

Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds to the hot oil and allow them to pop. Once they start to pop, add 10 curry leaves and 1 whole green chili (slit lengthwise). Sauté for about 30 seconds to release their aroma.

Step 5

Stir in the cooked rice and mix gently to ensure the flavor and vibrant yellow color are evenly distributed. Be careful not to break the rice grains.

Step 6

Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of salt to the rice. Toss everything together, ensuring the lemon juice coats the rice evenly.

Step 7

If desired, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts over the rice for added crunch and texture.

Step 8

Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro just before serving for a touch of freshness and color.

Step 9

Serve warm as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite curry or vegetable stir-fry.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	786.7 grams (786.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	605

Total Fat 36.70g	47%
Saturated Fat 5.30g	27%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2454mg	107%
Total Carbohydrate 60.50g	22%
Dietary Fiber 3.80g	14%
Total Sugars 2.50g
Protein 12.90g	26%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 97mg	7%
Iron 5mg	27%
Potassium 399mg	8%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.9%

Protein: 8.3%

Carbs: 38.8%