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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Form patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, each about half an inch thick.
- Heat oil for frying: Warm the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
