Print

Lemon Rice Recipe

Hare Krishna Lemon Rice Recipe presented in a traditional bowl, garnished with fresh coriander leaf.

Hare Krishna Lemon Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This rich Lemon Rice combines wholesome ingredients, creating a harmonious blend that enhances any meal. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, cooking and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups basmati rice (makes about 6 cups cooked rice)
  • 6 tbsp ghee
  • 3 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp whole cloves
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp cardamom pods
  • 3 tsp urad dal
  • 3 tsp chana dal
  • A couple of handfuls of cashews
  • A couple of handfuls of raisins
  • 3 pinches turmeric
  • 3 cups mixed vegetables
  • 6 lemons (plus optional lemon zest)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Cook the rice with the cardamom pods, whole cloves, and bay leaves. Set aside.
  2. Heat the Ghee: In a large pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds, urad dal, and chana dal. Fry until the dals turn golden brown.
  3. Add Nuts and Raisins: Add the cashews and raisins. Fry until the cashews turn golden brown and the raisins swell up.
  4. Add Spices and Vegetables: Add the turmeric and mixed vegetables. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Combine with Rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan and mix well to coat the rice with the spice mixture.
  6. Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of the lemons into a bowl, remove any seeds, and pour the lemon juice over the rice. Mix thoroughly.
  7. Garnish: Add Lemon zest from one lemon and fresh coriander leaves to garnish.
  8. Serve: Offer to Krishna and serve hot.

Notes

  • Nut and Raisin Tip: Frying the nuts and raisins adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the Lemon Rice.
  • Pre-Cook Vegetables: You can pre-cook the mixed vegetables to ensure they are tender and blend well with the rice.
  • Serving Tip: Serve Lemon Rice with a side of fresh lime or lemon wedges to enhance the tangy flavors.
  • Leftovers: Lemon Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
  • Garnish: Add optional lemon zest and fresh coriander leaves to the finished rice to give it a fresher lemon taste.

Nutrition