Lemon rice is a popular south Indian dish made with cooked rice, lemon juice, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other spices. A serving of 6 oz (170.1 g) of lemon rice contains approximately 190 calories.

Apart from its delicious taste, this dish also offers many health benefits. For example, the ingredients used in making lemon rice are rich in several vital nutrients that are essential for maintaining good health.

In this article, we'll discuss the ingredients, preparation method, nutritional content, and potential side effects of lemon rice. We'll also take a look at some different variations and serving suggestions for this dish.

Ingredients of Lemon Rice

The main ingredients used in making lemon rice include cooked rice, lemon juice, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, curry leaves, peanuts, and chana dal. Other spices like cumin seeds, asafoetida, and red chili powder are also added to enhance the dish's flavor. Lemon rice can be made using leftover rice, making it a great option for using up any excess rice you have on hand. You can also add vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans to make the dish more nutritious and add some color to the mix.

Preparation Method of Lemon Rice

To make lemon rice, start by cooking your rice in a pot or rice cooker. Once the rice is cooked, spread it out on a tray or plate and let it cool for a few minutes. Meanwhile, heat some oil in a pan or wok and add mustard seeds, chana dal, peanuts, and curry leaves. Sauté until the mustard seeds start popping and the chana dal and peanuts turn golden brown. Next, add turmeric powder, asafoetida, and any vegetables you're using. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened. Then, add the cooked rice to the pan along with some salt and lemon juice. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined and the rice is coated with the beautiful yellow color. Lemon rice can be served hot or cold and can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side dish. It goes well with dal, sambar, or your favorite curry dish.

Nutrients in Lemon Rice

Lemon rice is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and dietary fiber. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, magnesium, and potassium. The turmeric used in the dish has anti-inflammatory properties and can boost immunity. One serving of 6 oz (170.1 g) of lemon rice provides approximately: - calories: 190 - Carbohydrates: 35 g - Protein: 5 g - Total Fat: 3 g - Saturated Fat: 0.5 g - Fiber: 2 g

Health Benefits of Lemon Rice

The ingredients used in making lemon rice have several health benefits. For example: - Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which can boost immunity, aid digestion, and improve skin health. - Turmeric powder has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body. - Mustard seeds and curry leaves can aid digestion, and peanuts can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Calories in Lemon Rice

One serving of 6 oz (170.1 g) of lemon rice contains approximately 190 calories. If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, it's best to control your portion size and limit your intake of high-calorie foods. To make lemon rice healthier, you can use brown rice instead of white rice to increase fiber intake and reduce the glycemic load. You can also add more vegetables to the dish to increase its nutrient content while reducing calories.

Serving Size of Lemon Rice

The recommended serving size for lemon rice is around 6 oz (170.1 g) or half a cup. However, the serving size can vary depending on your calorie needs, dietary goals, and health condition. It's essential to be mindful of your portion sizes when consuming high-calorie foods like lemon rice. Overeating can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

Side Effects of Lemon Rice

Although lemon rice has several health benefits, it can also have some side effects if consumed in excess or if you're allergic to any of its ingredients. Some potential side effects of lemon rice include: - Heartburn - Stomach upset - Allergic reactions (if you're allergic to peanuts, chana dal, or other ingredients in the dish) If you experience any discomfort or adverse reactions after consuming lemon rice, consult a healthcare professional or allergist.

Lemon Rice for Weight Loss

Lemon rice can be a healthy addition to your weight loss diet plan, but only if consumed in moderation and portion-controlled amounts. It's essential to choose healthy ingredients like brown rice, vegetables, and lean protein to make the dish more nutrient-dense and filling. To make lemon rice even healthier, you can skip or reduce the amount of peanuts and chana dal used in the dish as they are high in calories and fat. You could also add more veggies like spinach, kale, or broccoli to increase the fiber content and make you feel full for longer.

Lemon Rice Variations

Lemon rice can be modified in different ways to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common variations: - Add vegetables like carrots, peas, beans, or bell peppers to the dish to increase its nutrient content. - Use brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and reduce the glycemic index. - Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of rice for a low-carb option. - Add some coconut milk or grated coconut to the dish for a creamy texture and tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Rice

Lemon rice can be served as a side dish or a main dish. Here are some serving suggestions: - Serve hot lemon rice with dal, sambar, or your favorite curry dish. - Top cold lemon rice with some chopped cilantro, cashews, and raisins for a refreshing salad. - Pack lemon rice in your lunch box with some yogurt or raita for a satisfying meal on the go. - Enjoy lemon rice with some papadum or pickle for a complete Indian meal experience.