Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties Recipe

If you love a satisfying crunch and a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors, you are in for a treat with these Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties. This dish transforms simple leftover rice into golden, crispy patties infused with fragrant garlic, bright herbs, and a hint of smoky paprika, making every bite a delight. Perfect for a quick snack, a cozy side, or even a light meal, the Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties bring warmth, texture, and color to your table in the most irresistible way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but wonderfully purposeful, each adding a unique touch to the patties. From the sharpness of cheddar cheese to the fresh pop of parsley and the subtle tang of Greek yogurt, every element works in harmony to create a flavorful, crispy delight.

• 2 cups cooked leftover rice: Leftover rice is the perfect base, providing the ideal texture for binding and crisping up beautifully.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a bit of bite, enhancing the flavor without overpowering.
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese: Brings creamy richness and a mild sharpness that melts into the patties.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a natural binder, keeping the patties together during cooking.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Delivers a fresh herbal note and a lively green color.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that elevates the whole dish.
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced: Adds sweetness and wonderful color contrast.
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Gives a subtle tang and helps keep the patties moist and tender.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the flavors with a zesty twist.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky depth that lingers pleasantly.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps bind the ingredients and creates a crisp crust; gluten-free flour can be used as an alternative.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.

How to Make Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties

Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients

Start by combining your cooked leftover rice, finely chopped onion, grated cheddar cheese, beaten egg, fresh parsley, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mixing these first ensures the foundation of your patties is flavorful and balanced, with cheese adding that melty richness and herbs bringing freshness.

Step 2: Add the Creamy, Tangy Elements

Next, stir in the Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This combination is where the patties develop their delightful character — the yogurt provides a silky texture while the lime juice and spices awaken your taste buds with a subtle zest and smoky aroma.

Step 3: Bind with Flour

Sprinkle the flour over your mixture and gently fold it in. This step is crucial as the flour serves as a binder, helping the patties hold together without crumbling, and contributes to their signature crispy crust when fried.

Step 4: Shape Your Patties

Using your hands, form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, aiming for about half an inch thick. This size ensures even cooking and a perfect balance between crispy outside and tender inside.

Step 5: Heat the Olive Oil

Warm olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Getting the oil hot but not smoking is key to achieving a beautiful golden crust while cooking the patties evenly.

Step 6: Cook to Golden Perfection

Carefully place four patties in the skillet at a time. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and delightfully crispy. Resist the urge to move them too much so that the crust has time to develop.

Step 7: Drain and Repeat

Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Then, repeat the cooking process with the remaining patties, ensuring every one of your Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties is perfectly cooked.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your patties hot, so they are at their crispiest and most flavorful. Whether enjoyed on their own or with a tasty dipping sauce, these patties make for a delicious treat any time of day.

How to Serve Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties

Garnishes

Consider topping the patties with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley for an extra pop of freshness. A squeeze of lime over the top right before serving brightens the flavors and makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

These patties pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a tomato salsa to add a juicy contrast. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to balance textures and flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an exciting twist, use the crispy patties as a base for mini open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado slices or a spoonful of spicy chutney. They also make great finger foods at parties when paired with an array of dips like tzatziki, hummus, or spicy aioli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store leftover Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture so you can enjoy them again without any fuss.

Freezing

These patties freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months, making them fantastic to prepare in advance for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated patties in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if needed, until crisp and heated through. Avoid microwaving whenever possible to preserve the crunch you love in Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?

While leftover rice is dryer and better suited for making patties, you can use freshly cooked rice if you spread it on a tray to cool and dry out a bit first. This helps prevent mushy patties.

What if I am allergic to eggs?

You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use mashed potatoes to help bind the mixture without losing the patty’s structure.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or almond flour to keep your Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties safe and delicious.

How do I get the patties extra crispy?

Ensure your pan and olive oil are properly preheated and avoid overcrowding the skillet. Pat the patties dry before frying and avoid flipping them too often for that perfect crispy crust.

Are these patties suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties are excellent for meal prep as they store well and reheat easily while maintaining flavor and texture, making your busy week delicious and convenient.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about these Crispy Garlic-Herb Rice Patties. They take humble ingredients and turn them into a dish full of flavor, texture, and heart. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or just want a tasty treat that’s easy to make, these patties will quickly become a favorite. Give them a try—you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

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