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You Won’t Believe How These Rice Patties Turn Leftovers into Gourmet Bites

You Won’t Believe How These Rice Patties Turn Leftovers into Gourmet Bites

Got leftover rice? Before you resign it to the back of the fridge (again), let me blow your mind: with just a few pantry staples and a frying pan, you can transform yesterday’s takeout into gourmet-style rice patties that are crispy, savory, and seriously addictive. Whether you’re cooking on a budget, feeding picky eaters, or just love a good kitchen hack, this recipe is a game-changer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4

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
 

  • 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.
  • Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and gently fold it in. This will help bind the patties.
  • Using your hands, form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick each.
  • Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • 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.
  • Remove the cooked patties and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining patties.
  • Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to your main course.

Notes

  • The addition of smoked paprika gives these rice patties a unique, smoky flavor that sets them apart from traditional recipes. It adds depth and complexity to the taste, making them more memorable and crave-worthy.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with rice flour or your preferred gluten-free flour blend.
  • These patties are versatile – try adding different herbs like cilantro or dill, or experiment with various cheese types for new flavor combinations
  • Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.