Rice and Cheese Croquettes are a delectable fusion of textures and flavors that make for a delightful appetizer or snack. These golden morsels combine the creamy tang of cheddar or mozzarella cheese and the nutty richness of Parmesan with the hearty texture of cooked rice. Fresh herbs add a burst of aromatic freshness, while seasoning with garlic and onion powder ensures every bite is packed with savory depth.
The preparation starts with a thorough mixing of the primary ingredients—cooked rice, grated cheeses, and fresh herbs—binding them together with a large egg and seasoning them to perfection. This mixture is then shaped into small, enticing balls or classic croquette shapes, ensuring each piece is uniform and compact.
A crucial step in achieving the croquettes’ crispy exterior is coating them evenly in breadcrumbs. This breadcrumb layer provides that satisfying crunch which contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior. Once coated, the croquettes are fried in hot vegetable oil, turning them a perfect golden brown within minutes. The process is swift, requiring only about 2-3 minutes of frying per side, resulting in a crispy texture that encapsulates the soft, savory blend inside.
The final step involves draining the excess oil on paper towels, an essential step to maintain their crispiness without greasiness. Served warm, these Rice and Cheese Croquettes are not just visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying in their flavor profile and texture.
Interesting to note, these croquettes can be a versatile addition to any meal, serving as a wonderful side dish or a standout appetizer. They epitomize comfort food with a gourmet twist, appealing to both children and adults alike.
Ingredients
2 cups of cooked rice
1 cup of grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (parsley or basil)
1 large egg
1/2 tsp of garlic powder
1/2 tsp of onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
1. Combine the cooked rice, grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh herbs in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the large egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or croquette shapes.
4. Dredge each croquette in the breadcrumbs, making sure they are evenly coated.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover about half of the croquette.
6. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the croquettes into the skillet. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Transfer the fried croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
8. Serve the rice and cheese croquettes warm.