Rice Patties Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and a delightful twist on a humble staple, these Rice Patties are exactly what you need to try next. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavors from cheddar, garlic, and a hint of smoked paprika, this recipe transforms leftover rice into an irresistible treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or a vegetarian-friendly option, these Rice Patties bring versatility and so much heart to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the start of making these rice patties truly shine. Every component plays a key role from flavor to texture to color, ensuring that every bite is satisfying and delicious.

• 2 cups cooked leftover rice: Using day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky, making it perfect for forming patties.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch that livens up the patties.
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully inside, offering gooey, savory richness.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a natural binder to keep everything together.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal note.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a punch of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced: For a pop of color and gentle sweetness that contrasts nicely with the cheese.
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a bit of tang to the mixture.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Introduces acidity that balances richness and keeps the patties vibrant.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the recipe.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a smoky warmth that makes these Rice Patties uniquely memorable.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative): Helps hold the patties together while frying.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying: Ensures a perfect golden crust with a deliciously crisp finish.

How to Make Rice Patties

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, bring together the leftover rice, finely chopped onion, grated cheddar, beaten egg, parsley, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Mixing these elements thoroughly is key for evenly distributed flavors and textures in every patty.

Step 2: Add Creaminess and Seasoning

Stir in the Greek yogurt and lime juice, followed by salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. These ingredients add layers of tang and warmth that make the Rice Patties stand out with balanced, exciting flavors.

Step 3: Bind With Flour

Sprinkle the flour evenly over your mixture, then gently fold it in. This step is important as the flour acts like glue, keeping the patties intact and giving them structure when frying.

Step 4: Shape the Patties

With clean hands, form the mixture into eight equal-sized patties about half an inch thick. Even sizing ensures they cook uniformly, making every patty consistently crispy and tender.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. When hot, place four patties gently into the pan. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Transfer them onto paper towels to soak up any extra oil before frying the remaining patties.

How to Serve Rice Patties

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of Greek yogurt over the top to add freshness and creaminess. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving lifts the flavors beautifully and complements the smoky paprika perfectly.

Side Dishes

These Rice Patties pair wonderfully with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or a bright tomato salsa. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian platter with hummus and pickled vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these patties stacked like mini burgers with your favorite toppings such as avocado slices, spicy mayo, or even a fried egg on top. They also work great as a base for poached eggs or as a hearty filler inside pita bread with tzatziki sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Rice Patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They stay crispy if you reheat them gently in a skillet or oven rather than the microwave.

Freezing

To freeze, lay the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months, making them a convenient make-ahead snack or meal addition.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat frozen or refrigerated Rice Patties in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice for Rice Patties?

Freshly cooked rice tends to be stickier and moister, which can make forming patties more difficult. It’s best to use leftover rice that’s been chilled, as it’s firmer and holds together much better during cooking.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika? Can I skip it?

While smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth and smoky flavor, you can substitute with regular paprika or omit it entirely. However, the patties might lose a bit of their characteristic warmth.

Are these Rice Patties gluten-free?

They can be, as long as you substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative such as rice flour, chickpea flour, or a gluten-free baking mix. This allows everyone to enjoy them without worries.

Can I bake the patties instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a great lighter option. Place the patties on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

What dipping sauces complement these Rice Patties?

They are fantastic with yogurt-based sauces, spicy sriracha mayo, tangy tomato salsa, or even a simple garlic aioli. Pick a dipping sauce that matches your mood or meal theme to elevate your experience.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with these Rice Patties. They’re comforting, flavorful, and a clever way to transform simple leftover rice into a dish everyone will rave about. Next time you find yourself with leftover rice, give this recipe a whirl—you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

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