Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary rice into a burst of vibrant flavors, where each spoonful transports you straight to the sunny kitchens of India. Our Lemon Rice and Peas recipe is not just a meal, it's a quick escape to a world of tangy, aromatic delight that will revolutionize your weeknight dining. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a stunning, nutritious dish that promises to become your new favorite comfort food, packed with bright citrus notes and sweet green peas that dance on your palate.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup green peas
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. Drain completely.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and gently toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat each grain with oil.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the green peas. Season with salt to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rice and peas. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to distribute the lemon juice and ensure even mixing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or lemon juice to preference.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot as a light main course or side dish.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Key: Always rinse basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy after cooking.
- Toasting Technique: Lightly toasting rice in olive oil before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and helps prevent clumping.
- Liquid Ratio Matters: Use a 2:1 broth to rice ratio for perfectly cooked, tender rice every time.
- Low and Slow: Simmer on the lowest heat setting with a tight-fitting lid to allow even cooking and steam retention.
- Lemon Love: Add lemon juice after cooking to preserve its fresh, bright flavor and prevent bitterness.
- Fluffing Finesse: Always use a fork to fluff rice, which helps separate grains and incorporates seasonings evenly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
