Lemon Rice, also known as Chitranna, is a vibrant and flavorful South Indian dish. It’s a quick and easy meal made by mixing cooked rice with a tempering of spices like mustard seeds, lentils (like urad dal and chana dal), peanuts, curry leaves, and a touch of turmeric for color. The key to its signature tangy taste comes from fresh lemon juice.
This versatile dish can be served as a light and refreshing meal on its own, or as a flavorful side dish to accompany a variety of Indian curries or meat dishes. It’s a popular choice for utilizing leftover rice and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences.
Key elements of lemon rice
Tangy flavor: The lemon juice adds a bright and zesty tang to the dish.
Aromatic tempering: Mustard seeds, lentils, peanuts, curry leaves, and other spices provide a fragrant and flavorful base for the dish.
Bright yellow hue: Turmeric gives the rice its characteristic appealing yellow color.
Versatile: Can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
Utilizes leftovers: A great way to transform day-old rice into a delicious meal.
