Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties are a delicious way to transform leftover rice into a flavorful, golden snack or side dish. With a blend of fresh herbs, cheese, and a touch of spice, these patties offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked leftover rice (any variety)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover rice, chopped onion, grated cheese, beaten egg, parsley, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Mix well.
2. Step 2: Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and gently fold it in. This will help bind the patties.
4. Step 4: Using your hands, form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick each.
5. Step 5: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. Step 6: Once the oil is hot, carefully place 4 patties in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Remove the cooked patties and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining patties.
8. Step 8: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to your main course.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old rice for the best texture to prevent the patties from becoming mushy.
• Substitute cheddar with feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add finely chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
• For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based yogurt.

Storage

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispness, or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?

While you can use fresh rice, leftover or day-old rice is recommended as it is drier and helps the patties hold together better without becoming too sticky or mushy.

What dipping sauces go well with these rice patties?

These patties pair nicely with a variety of dips like sour cream, tzatziki, spicy mayo, or even a simple squeeze of lime. Choose one that complements your meal or personal taste.

Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 124 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 patties 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties are a delicious way to transform leftover rice into a flavorful, golden-brown snack or side dish. Packed with fresh herbs, cheddar cheese, and a hint of smoked paprika, these patties are pan-fried to perfect crispiness, making them an irresistible treat for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice Patty Mixture

• 2 cups cooked leftover rice (any variety)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Mix the base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked leftover rice, finely chopped onion, grated cheddar cheese, beaten egg, fresh parsley, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all elements.
2. Add seasonings and yogurt: Stir in the Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until the mixture is well combined and flavorful.
3. Incorporate flour for binding: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and gently fold it in. The flour helps the patties hold together during cooking.
4. Form patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, each about half an inch thick.
5. Heat oil for frying: Warm the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
6. Cook the patties: Place 4 patties at a time into the skillet, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each patty is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Drain excess oil: Remove the cooked patties and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Continue cooking the remaining patties in batches.
8. Serve hot: Enjoy the patties hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a flavorful side dish complementing your main course.

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour alternative instead of all-purpose flour.
• You can substitute cheddar cheese with any other cheese of choice for different flavors.
• Leftover rice should be cold and slightly dried for best binding and crispy texture.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences.
• These patties can be prepared in advance and reheated in a skillet or oven.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: rice patties, garlic herb patties, crispy rice patties, leftover rice recipes, vegetarian side dish, fried rice cakes