Rice and potato patties are a wonderful way to transform leftover rice and mashed potatoes into a delicious and satisfying meal or snack. These patties are packed with flavor and texture, thanks to the addition of chopped vegetables like onion, carrot, corn, and fresh herbs. They are easy to make and can be served on their own, with a dip, or as part of a larger meal. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create these tasty rice and potato patties.
Ingredients
- 250g leftover rice
- 120g leftover mashed potatoes
- 50g chopped onion
- 50g chopped carrot
- 50g corn (canned or cooked)
- 15g chopped green onion
- 10g chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover rice and mashed potatoes. Mix well to combine into a cohesive mixture.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrot, corn, green onion, and cilantro to the rice and potato mixture.
- Season the Mixture: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other spices or seasonings based on your preference, such as garlic powder, cumin, or paprika.
- Form the Patties: Using your hands, form the mixture into patties. Aim for a size that is easy to handle, about the size of your palm. You should be able to make about 6-8 patties, depending on the size.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon or two of oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, but not so much that the patties are deep-fried.
- Fry the Patties: Place the patties in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the patties for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and a crispy texture. If the patties are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Drain the Patties: Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Serve the Patties
- Cool Slightly: Allow the patties to cool for a minute or two before serving.
- Serve: Serve the rice and potato patties hot, with your favorite dipping sauce such as ketchup, sour cream, or a yogurt-based dip. These also complement a crisp salad or a side of steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Rice and potato patties are a tasty and resourceful way to use up leftovers, turning them into something new and exciting. The combination of rice, potatoes, and fresh vegetables creates a patty that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with bursts of flavor from the onions, carrots, corn, and herbs. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these patties are sure to be a hit. Follow these simple steps to make a batch of delicious rice and potato patties that everyone will love!