I would not like them here or there. I would not like them anywhere.

• Dr. Seuss

Perhaps the quickest TamBrahm way to pep up left over rice is to turn it into Lemon Rice. Simple, yet seasoned well, it can be very tasty. The spouse hates it. Reminds him of his hostel days when every third day was a yellow flavorless rice. My kids are indifferent to this. So you guessed right, I probably make this once a year.

Although I quite liked the way this turned out, not thrilled with the photo – one of my early ones that I once was proud of, that now look kinda ho hum to me. But to celebrate the effort of my early days, and to see how far I have have come, decided to share it anyways.

Lemon rice
🍋Heat 2 tbsp oil on medium heat
Let splutter
1 tsp Jeera ( Cumin)
1 tsp Kadudu (Mustard seeds)
🍋Saute in same oil
12 curry leaves
5 to 6 Thai Chillies slit into two
A handful of peanuts till golden
🍋Add 1.5 tbsp Julienned Ginger
1/2 tsp turmeric and toss till raw smell of Turmetic dissipates. This is important, otherwise the flavor rice will be unappetizing
Mix in 3 cups of cooked rice
🍋Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped Cilantro
🍋Squeeze in 1 to 2 tbsp lemon or lime, depending on tartness. This should have a hint of lemon flavor but not be tart.

Serve with chips or apalam for a crunch factor and a sauted vegetable or a stew like kootu or avial.