Lemon Rice (Vrat)
South Indian • Vegetarian
How to Make Lemon Rice (Vrat) – Traditional & Healthy South Indian Recipe
Lemon Rice (Vrat) is a vibrant, zesty South Indian dish, cherished for its simplicity and refreshing flavor profile. Traditionally prepared during Hindu fasting periods (vrat), such as Ekadashi or Navratri, Lemon Rice offers a delightful combination of tangy lemon juice, aromatic curry leaves, and mild spices tossed with vrat-friendly rice like samak or barnyard millet. This dish has deep roots in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, where lemon-infused rice is often enjoyed as a light lunch, temple prasad, or festival offering. Its bright yellow hue, courtesy of turmeric, and its balanced taste make it a favorite across generations. Lemon Rice is particularly popular during fasting because it's quick to prepare, easy to digest, and meets the dietary restrictions of vrat—being free from onions, garlic, and regular grains. The subtle sourness of lemon combined with the nutty notes of the millet creates a comfort food that's both nourishing and energizing. Whether served in a lunchbox, as part of a festive vrat thali, or enjoyed piping hot with a side of yogurt, Lemon Rice (Vrat) is a wholesome option for fasting days and an excellent choice for those seeking lighter, vegetarian meals.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (about 1 cup) Lemon Rice)
- 1 cup Samak rice (barnyard millet) (vrat-friendly grain)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons Roasted peanuts (unsalted; optional for protein) - optional
- 8-10 Curry leaves (fresh)
- 1-2 Green chillies (slit; adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera) (whole)
- 1 tablespoon Ghee (or cold-pressed oil for vegan)
- to taste Rock salt (sendha namak) (vrat-friendly salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder (for vibrant color)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped, for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Rinse samak rice thoroughly and soak for 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
10 minutes
Soaking millet ensures fluffier texture.
- 2
Boil 2 cups water in a pan. Add soaked samak rice, cover, and cook on low heat until grains are tender and water is absorbed (about 12 minutes).
12 minutes
Do not overcook; grains should remain separate.
- 3
Heat ghee in a wide kadhai (wok). Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add curry leaves and green chillies. Sauté for 1 minute.
2 minutes
Use fresh curry leaves for authentic aroma.
- 4
Sprinkle turmeric, roasted peanuts, and boiled samak rice into the tempering. Add rock salt. Mix gently to combine.
3 minutes
Fold rice gently to avoid breaking grains.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This vrat-friendly Lemon Rice is a smart choice for calorie counters and those seeking balanced nutrition during fasting. It is low in fat, free from refined grains, and incorporates wholesome ingredients that support gut health and satiety. Using millet instead of regular rice increases fiber and micronutrient content, while minimal oil keeps calories in check. The dish is naturally vegetarian, easily adaptable for vegan diets, and packed with flavor without relying on heavy masalas or processed foods.
Lemon Rice (Vrat) made with samak rice is gluten-free, low in calories, and high in fiber, making it ideal for digestive health during fasting. Samak rice is a rich source of magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, and provides sustained energy without spiking blood sugar. The use of lemon juice adds a dose of vitamin C, while peanuts contribute plant-based protein and healthy fats. Curry leaves and cumin aid metabolism and have antioxidant properties, making this dish not just satisfying but nutritionally balanced.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always add lemon juice after switching off the heat to retain freshness.
- 💡Tip 2: Use vrat-friendly rock salt for authenticity during fasting.
- 💡Tip 3: Toast peanuts separately for maximum crunch.
- 💡Tip 4: Fluff millet gently with a fork to keep grains separate.
- 💡Tip 5: Curry leaves offer a signature South Indian aroma—don't skip them.
Storage & Serving
Keeps for 6-8 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Refresh with a splash of lemon before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 160.0 kcal |
| Protein | 3.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30.5 g |
| Total Fat | 3.5 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugars | 0.5 g |
| Iron | 1.1 mg |
| Calcium | 18.0 mg |
| Sodium | 200.0 mg |
| Potassium | 65.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 20.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 14.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 40.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 1.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 7.0 µg |
