LEMON RICE

Lemon rice is a staple in most South Indian households. It is a comfort food for many and is most commonly eaten for a meal. Lemon rice has a delicate flavour of fresh lemon juice along with the aroma of the tempering ingredients like mustard seeds, ginger, lentils, curry leaves and green chilies.

Ingredients

• 1 and 1/2 cups cooked rice
• 1 small lemon
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp chana dal
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 3/4 tsp urad dal
• 2 nos red chilliesa pinch hing
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• few nos curry leaves
• 1.5 tbsp peanuts

RECIPE

1. Place the Poha in a sieve or colander and rinse it under running water for a few seconds. Be gentle to avoid breaking the flakes. Drain and set aside. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to soften.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan or a kadai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
3. Add curry leaves and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute until they become fragrant.
4. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
5. Add the diced potatoes and green peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender. You can cover the pan with a lid to help the potatoes cook faster.
6. Add turmeric powder and salt. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
7. Gently fluff the rinsed Poha with a fork and add it to the pan. Mix everything together. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring gently to avoid breaking the Poha.
8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the Poha. If desired, add a pinch of sugar for a touch of sweetness. Mix well.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves, roasted peanuts, and, if you like, grated coconut and sev.
10. Poha is best served hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade Poha for breakfast or as a snack!