Zucchini and Rice Patties are a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or even a light main course. These patties combine the fresh flavor of zucchini with the heartiness of rice, bound together by eggs and seasoned with your favorite spices. With a crispy exterior and tender inside, these patties are easy to make and perfect for a quick meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis
- 100 g rice
- 200 ml water
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, pepper, and your favorite spices to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
- Prepare the Rice:
- Wash the rice under cold running water until the water appears clear. In a small pot, bring 200 ml of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out the excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing the patties from becoming soggy.
3. Make the Patties Mixture:
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cooked rice, minced garlic, eggs, and flour. Stir until well mixed.
- Season:
- Add salt, pepper, and your favorite spices to taste (such as paprika, cumin, or oregano). Mix everything together until well incorporated.
4. Form and Fry the Patties:
- Shape the Patties:
- Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small patties, about the size of your palm. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a little more flour to help bind it.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the Patties:
- Fry the patties in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them over.
- Drain Excess Oil:
- Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Serve the Zucchini and Rice Patties hot, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tzatziki, sour cream, or a light yogurt sauce.
- These patties are also perfect as a side dish or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Zucchini and Rice Patties are a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and tender inside, these patties offer a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Serve them with your favorite sauce or as a versatile side dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!