Introduction: Experience the burst of tangy flavors with our Millet Lemon Rice recipe. This South Indian specialty is a delightful combination of cooked millets tossed with a zesty lemon-infused tempering, aromatic spices, and crunchy peanuts. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this vibrant and refreshing rice dish is sure to brighten up your meal. Join us as we explore the simple steps to create this flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or potlucks.

Ingredients:

For Cooking Millets:

• 1 cup mixed millets (any combination of foxtail millet, little millet, pearl millet, etc.)
• 2 cups water
• A pinch of salt

For Tempering:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 2-3 dried red chilies
• A handful of curry leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup peanuts
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Salt, to taste

For Lemon Mixture:

• Juice of 2-3 lemons (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Millets:
   • Rinse the mixed millets under running water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
   • In a saucepan, combine the rinsed millets and water. Add a pinch of salt.
   • Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the millets simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the millets are cooked through.
   • Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and fluff the millets with a fork. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Tempering:
   • Heat oil in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add chana dal and urad dal. Sauté until they turn golden brown.
   • Add dried red chilies, curry leaves, and peanuts. Sauté until the peanuts are lightly roasted.
   • Add turmeric powder and mix well.
3. Combine Millets and Tempering:
   • Add the cooked millets to the pan with the tempering. Mix gently to combine.
   • Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Prepare the Lemon Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies (if using). Mix well.
5. Mix and Serve:
   • Pour the lemon mixture over the cooked millets. Mix gently to combine, ensuring that the millets are evenly coated with the lemony flavor.
   • Adjust salt according to taste.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Serve Millet Lemon Rice hot or at room temperature with a side of yogurt, pickle, or papad.

Variations:

• For added flavor, you can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) or a few curry leaves to the tempering.
• Enhance the texture by adding grated coconut or cashew nuts along with the peanuts.
• You can also add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Nutritional Information: Millet Lemon Rice is a light and refreshing dish that’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Millets provide complex carbohydrates and essential nutrients, while lemon offers vitamin C and antioxidants. This dish is also gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Conclusion: Millet Lemon Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its tangy and aromatic flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try making it at home and enjoy the refreshing taste of this delicious lemon-infused rice dish.