Easy Lemon Rice (Nimmakaya Pulihora) Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Rice, also known as Nimmakaya Pulihora in Telugu and Chitranna in Karnataka, is one of the most popular South Indian rice dishes. This bright yellow, tangy, and aromatic recipe is made using cooked rice, fresh lemon juice, peanuts, lentils, curry leaves, and mild spices. It is light on the stomach, easy to prepare, and perfect for lunchboxes, travel, picnics, or quick meals using leftover rice.

What makes lemon rice special is its simplicity and long shelf life. Unlike curd rice or tomato rice, lemon rice stays fresh for several hours, making it ideal for hot climates and journeys.

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (completely cooled)
• 1½ tbsp sesame oil or cooking oil
• ½ tsp mustard seeds
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp chana dal
• 1 tbsp urad dal
• 2 tbsp peanuts or cashews
• 1 dry red chili (broken)
• 1 green chili (slit)
• ½ tsp grated ginger
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• ¼ tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• Fresh coriander leaves (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook rice and spread it on a wide plate. Allow it to cool completely.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
4. Add chana dal, urad dal, and peanuts. Fry until golden brown.
5. Add cumin seeds, dry red chili, green chili, ginger, and curry leaves.
6. Sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
7. Add turmeric powder and mix well. Turn off the heat.
8. Add cooled rice and salt. Mix gently without breaking the grains.
9. Add lemon juice once the rice is warm, not hot.
10. Mix well, garnish with coriander leaves, and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old rice for best texture.
• Always add lemon juice after switching off the flame.
• Add grated carrots, peas, or corn for a vegetable version.
• Replace peanuts with roasted cashews for richer taste.
• Add roasted sesame powder for temple-style lemon rice.

Health Benefits

Lemon rice is light, nutritious, and easy to digest. Lemon is rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and improves iron absorption. Turmeric acts as a natural antiseptic, while curry leaves and ginger support digestion. When prepared with minimal oil, lemon rice becomes a healthy everyday meal.

Nutrition Information (Approx per serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Fiber: 4 g

Who Should Eat & Who Should Avoid

Recommended for: Students, office-goers, travelers, and people looking for light meals.
Avoid or limit: Those with acidity issues should reduce lemon quantity.

Storage Tips

Lemon rice can be kept at room temperature for up to 6–8 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Allow it to reach room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, leftover rice works best for lemon rice.

Q: Why does lemon rice turn bitter?
Adding lemon juice to hot rice or oil causes bitterness.

Q: Is lemon rice good for travel?
Yes, it is one of the best South Indian travel-friendly dishes.

Conclusion

Easy Lemon Rice is a timeless South Indian classic that balances taste, nutrition, and convenience. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Whether for lunchboxes, festivals, or quick meals, lemon rice is a must-have recipe in every Indian kitchen.