Lemon Rice

Chitra anna (Lemon Rice)

Chittra anna is lemon fried rice. Also called Nimbekai Chitranna in Kannada it is the most commonly prepared rice dish in Karnataka. The rice is yellow from turmeric and flavored with lemon, fried peanuts and spices. Since it is so colorful it is often made for special occasions or festivals. Serve with raita, green beans palya or lentil stews like sambar or rasam.

Ingredients:
2 cups steamed white rice
2-3 tbsp oil
Pinch asafoetida(hing)
1 tbsp urad dal
1 tsp mustard seeds
2-3 tbsp peanuts
5-6 whole red chilies
2 green chilies finely chopped
1 tbsp ginger grated (traditionally not used, i use it, gives a great flavor)
salt to taste
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Red chili powder to taste
Lemon juice as per taste

1. For good results always advisable to use steamed rice cooked a few hours in advance. Fluff with a fork to ensure all grains are separate.
2. In a large pan heat oil and add mustard seeds. Let them roast for 5-7 seconds, then add hing, urad dal, peanuts and whole red chilies. Roast till dal turns golden.
3. Add the rice, green chilies and ginger and stir to combine. Keeping the heat at medium, add salt, turmeric and chili powder. Saute well to combine everything for about 3-4 minutes.
4. Finally add the lemon juice as per taste and adjust any seasoning. Serve hot.