If you’re craving a burst of flavor in your meals, Rice Cooker Lemon Rice is the perfect dish to try. This vibrant South Indian classic combines the tanginess of fresh lemons with aromatic spices, creating a delightful harmony that elevates simple rice to something extraordinary. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make, especially with a rice cooker.

Rice Cooker Lemon Rice – Tangy South Indian-Style Rice

To prepare your Rice Cooker Lemon Rice, gather the following ingredients and follow these steps for a delightful dish bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a tangy and delicious Rice Cooker Lemon Rice. Each component contributes to the vibrant flavors and textures of the dish.

Rice

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
• Salt to taste

Vegetables

• 1/4 cup peanuts, roasted
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare delicious Rice Cooker Lemon Rice effortlessly.

Prep

1. Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Drain well.
2. Gather all ingredients: 2 cups of water, 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon of urad dal, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 2 slit green chilies, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or ghee, salt to taste, 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts, 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnish.

Cook the Rice

1. In your rice cooker, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or ghee.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and allow them to splutter for about 30 seconds.
3. Stir in 1 teaspoon of urad dal and sauté until it turns golden brown.
4. Incorporate 2 slit green chilies and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the rinsed basmati rice to the cooker along with 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
6. Close the lid and set your rice cooker to the appropriate setting. Cook the rice until it is tender and all liquid is absorbed, typically around 10-15 minutes.

1. Once the rice is cooked, let it sit for 5 minutes in the cooker with the lid closed. This allows for fluffiness.
2. Open the lid, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and add 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts and 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
3. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the peanuts and lemon juice evenly throughout the rice.
4. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh coriander leaves before serving.
5. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your tangy South Indian-style Rice Cooker Lemon Rice!

Cook

Prepare to create a delightful Rice Cooker Lemon Rice by following these simple steps.

Combine Ingredients in the Rice Cooker

Begin by adding the rinsed basmati rice to the rice cooker. Pour in 2 cups of water and add 1 teaspoon of salt to taste. Carefully sprinkle 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon of urad dal, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and the 2 slit green chilies. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or ghee over the mixture. Stir gently to ensure that the ingredients are adequately mixed, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully during cooking.

Cooking Time

Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the normal cooking cycle. Allow the rice to cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice cooker indicates that it is finished. Once cooked, let the rice sit for an additional 5 minutes to steam and fluff up. Open the lid carefully, taking in the fragrant aroma of spices and citrus. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently before proceeding to the next step.

Tools and Equipment

To prepare Rice Cooker Lemon Rice efficiently, you’ll need the following tools and equipment:

• Rice Cooker: The star of this recipe, it perfectly cooks the rice while infusing it with flavor from the spices.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of rice, water, spices, and oils.
• Mixing Spoon: A long spoon for stirring ingredients in the rice cooker without scratching the non-stick surface.
• Cutting Board: For chopping green chilies and coriander leaves safely.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for precisely slicing your ingredients.
• Lemon Squeezer or Juicer: To extract juice from fresh lemons easily and efficiently.
• Serving Bowl: A large bowl to serve the finished Lemon Rice.

Having these tools ready will streamline your cooking process and help you create this tangy South Indian delight with ease.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare Rice Cooker Lemon Rice in advance to save time on busy days. Follow these steps to make-ahead this delightful dish:

1. Cook the Rice: Prepare the Rice Cooker Lemon Rice according to the main recipe instructions. Allow it to cool completely after cooking.
2. Storage: Once the rice has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
3. Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
4. Freezing: For freezer storage, portion the rice into smaller containers or freezer bags. Remember to leave some space for expansion as the rice may absorb moisture. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.
5. Reheating: When you are ready to serve the rice, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can steam it in a pot to retain moisture.
6. Final Touches: After reheating, mix in the lemon juice, roasted peanuts, and fresh coriander leaves just before serving to ensure vibrant flavors.

Following these make-ahead instructions will enable you to enjoy the tangy flavors of Rice Cooker Lemon Rice with minimal effort on the day you want to serve it.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Rice Cooker Lemon Rice experience with these delightful serving suggestions. Each option complements the dish’s tangy flavor and vibrant aroma, making your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Side Dishes

• Papadum: Serve crispy papadum on the side for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender rice.
• Raita: A cool cucumber or boondi raita balances the tanginess of the lemon rice and adds a creamy texture.
• Vegetable Curry: Pair with a mild vegetable curry for a wholesome meal that enhances the dish’s South Indian roots.

Garnish and Presentation

• Fresh Coriander Leaves: Sprinkle additional chopped coriander leaves on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Offer extra lemon wedges on the side, allowing diners to adjust the tanginess to their liking as they eat.

Meal Ideas

• Lunch Box: Rice Cooker Lemon Rice makes an excellent option for a lunch box, paired with a small container of raita and some chips for crunch.
• Picnic: Take this dish to a picnic alongside seasonal vegetables or fruit for a light and refreshing outdoor meal.

• Buttermilk: Enjoy with chilled buttermilk or a mango lassi to complement the flavors and provide a refreshing drink option.
• Herbal Tea: Consider serving with a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy touch after a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Rice Cooker Lemon Rice is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings the essence of South Indian cuisine to your home. With its tangy lemon and aromatic spices, it transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant meal.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, its make-ahead options make it a convenient choice for any occasion.

So grab your rice cooker and start experimenting with this delightful recipe. You’ll find that it’s not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that adds a refreshing twist to your dining experience. Enjoy every flavorful bite!