With the sun beating down and the mercury rising, something that can rejuvenate the senses is lemon. It is one of the essential items that need to be stocked in the kitchen pantry in the summer months. Celebrated for its tangy taste and refreshing aroma, lemon makes its way through several summer dishes.
Lemon or nimbu is loaded with Vitamin C which helps the immune system to function properly. The characteristic taste of lemon comes from citric acid, which makes its juice acidic in nature. There are a variety of dishes and drinks to which the addition of lemon enhances its overall taste, flavours and adds a refreshing touch. From cooling beverages to light and tangy snacks, here are six delightful lemon dishes that are a must-try in summer.
Take a look:
- Nimbu Pani
Nimbu pani which is also known as the Indian lemonade is a traditional summer drink that cools people by providing hydration. This is an easy drink that can be made by squeezing fresh lemon into cold water and adding a pinch of salt, sugar, and a dash of roasted cumin powder or chaat masala for that extra kick. Pour the drink into a glass and garnish with mint leaves.
- Nimbu Ka Achaar
Also called lemon pickle, nimbu ka achaar is an amalgamation of tangy and spicy flavour that acts as a condiment to every meal. To prepare the delicacy all you need is wedges of lemon marinated in a mixture of salt, turmeric, chilli powder, and mustard seeds. Keep the lemon for fermentation for a few days or until they develop a tangy flavour. Serve nimbu ka achaar alongside rice, dal, or roti.
- Lemon Rice
This is a popular South Indian staple, especially during the summer months. Lemon rice or chitranna is known for its light and tangy flavour. This dish can be easily made by first cooking the rice and cooling it. Then in a pan, add oil and temper mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chillies, and peanuts. Add turmeric powder and the cooked rice and squeeze an adequate amount of lemon juice. Combine everything well garnish with coriander leaves and serve with sambar or coconut chutney.
- Nimbu Rasam
Another South Indian food that is relished during the hot summer months is nimbu rasam. This is a light and tangy soup that is both refreshing and comforting. To prepare the dish, first, you need to boil tamarind pulp with water, tomatoes, and spices like cumin, pepper, and turmeric. After they come to a boil and the spices meld together, add fresh lemon juice. In another pan, temper mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chillies in ghee or oil. Add to the rasam. Serve hot with rice.
- Nimbu Chai
You can take your chai experience to another level by indulging in nimbu chai or lemon tea. This simple chai you can make by brewing black tea and squeezing a generous amount of lemin juice, a dash of honey and roasted cumin powder for extra flavour. This drink is perfect for morning or afternoon. This chai offers a delighful warmth and freshness in every sip.
- Lemon Chicken
Also called lemon chicken, this is a flavourful Indian chicken recipe that you can enjoy in summer. Marinate the chicken pieces by combining lemon juice, yoghurt, garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook the chicken until tender and juicy. The lemon will tenderise the chicken and impart a refreshing citrus flavour to it. You can pair the dish with rice or naan.
- Lemon Cake
You can satisfy your sweet tooth with summer special lemon cake. To prepare this, make a vanilla cake batter and add in grated lemon zest for flavour. Bake the cake until golden brown and fragrant and add lemon glaze made from fresh lemon and powdered sugar. This cake is a sure hit at gatherings.
