Rice Patties Recipe
These crispy and flavorful Rice Patties are a perfect way to use leftover rice and create a delightful snack or side dish. Packed with savory cheddar cheese, fresh vegetables, and a hint of smoky paprika, they are easy to prepare and delicious served hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Author: Hannah
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 patties 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Pan Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main 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
Binding and Seasoning
- 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
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover rice, chopped onion, grated cheddar cheese, beaten egg, fresh parsley, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined.
- Add Seasonings and Yogurt: Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the bowl. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed and the flavors meld together.
- Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and gently fold it in. The flour acts as a binder to help the patties hold their shape during cooking.
- Form Patties: Use your hands to shape the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, approximately 1/2 inch thick each. This size ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the patties for the best sear.
- Cook Patties: Carefully place 4 patties at a time into the hot skillet. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy, then flip to cook the other side.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining patties.
- Serve: Serve the rice patties hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce or as a tasty side dish to complement your main course.
Notes
- The addition of smoked paprika provides a unique, smoky depth of flavor that enhances the patties beyond traditional rice cakes.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with any cheese of your preference or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.
- If you want a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour.
- Leftover rice works best when it has been chilled as it binds better and makes firmer patties.
- These patties pair well with a tangy yogurt sauce, spicy mayo, or a fresh salsa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Rice Patties, Leftover Rice Recipe, Cheddar Rice Cakes, Pan Fried Rice Snacks, Vegetarian Side Dish