Fluffy grains of aromatic Basmati rice flavored with mustard seeds, curry leaves and fresh lemon juice. Here's an easy 30-minute Instant Pot and stovetop recipe for this flavorful vegan and gluten-free side dish, Lemon Rice.
Soak basmati rice 10 minutes for best results. Rinse 2-3 times till the water runs clear. Drain and keep aside. Do the same with split lentils.
Turn Instant Pot on SAUTE mode (high). Wait till it reads "hot", and add ghee, mustard seeds and split black gram lentils.
When the mustard seeds splutter and lentils look light-golden, add green chilies, curry leaves, cashews, ginger, salt, spices, and saute for 30 seconds.
Add drained rice and water, stir and close the lid. Set Manual/Pressure cook for 6 minutes. Vent at Sealing position (DUO). If using ULTRA model, press START
Manually release pressure after 5 minutes (NPR 5). Open lid after pin has dropped and pot is completely depressurized. Add lemon juice and fluff the rice with a fork, mixing in the lemon juice gently.
Stovetop recipe
Rinse rice 2-3 times till the water runs clear. Drain and keep aside. Do the same with split lentils. Heat a sauce pot on medium-high heat. Wait till it’s hot, and add ghee/butter or oil. Add mustard seeds and split black gram lentils (urad).
When the mustard seeds splutter and lentils look light-golden, add green chilies, curry leaves, cashews, ginger, salt, spices, and saute for 30 seconds. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, cover the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes.
Turn off the heat, open lid, fluff up the rice with a fork. Add fresh lemon juice and mix well. That’s it!
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Notes
Use long grain rice (Basmati or Jasmine) for best results and fluffy rice.
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for authentic fresh flavors.
If fresh ginger is not available, use half the quantity of dried ginger powder.
Curry leaves add a citrusy zing to the recipe. If unavailable, use 1 tablespoon of lemongrass paste or 1 teaspoon lime zest instead.
Brown mustard seeds are the traditional choice for this recipe. If using light brown seeds, use 1.5 times the suggested quantity.
This recipe has been updated with process shots and updated content.
Note: The nutrition facts below are my estimates. If you are following any diet plan, I recommend cross-checking with your preferred nutrition calculator.