Middle Eastern Spiced Rice Fritters Recipe

 

Middle Eastern Spiced Rice Fritters Recipe

Middle Eastern Spiced Rice Fritters are crispy, flavorful bites that mix aromatic spices with comforting rice. These fritters make a great snack or appetizer and pair well with various dips and sauces. The blend of cumin, coriander, and sumac gives these fritters a unique flavor that will impress anyone.

 

Why You'll Love This 

You will enjoy this Middle Eastern Spiced Rice Fritters recipe because it offers a simple and tasty way to create a delicious snack or appetizer. The spices and herbs provide a rich flavor. Additionally, the recipe is flexible, allowing you to change the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Servings: 6-8 fritters

Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients 

·       2 cups of cooked rice 

·       1/2 cup all-purpose flour 

·       1/4 cup finely chopped onion. 

·       1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. 

·       1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. 

·       1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 

·       1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 

·       1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

·       1/4 teaspoon ground sumac 

·       1/2 teaspoon salt 

·       1/4 teaspoon black pepper 

·       1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional) 

·       2 eggs, lightly beaten. 

·       Vegetable oil for frying 

Tools 

·       Large bowl 

·       Mixing spoon 

·       Frying pan 

·       Paper towels 

 

Directions 

Step 1 

Prepare the Rice Mixture 

1. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, flour, chopped onion, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, sumac, salt, and pepper. 

Step 2 

Add the Feta Cheese and Eggs 

1. If you are using feta cheese, crumble it into the rice mixture and mix well. 

2. Pour in the beaten eggs and stir until the mixture is fully combined. 

Step 3 

Shape the Fritters 

1. Use your hands to form the rice mixture into small patties or balls. 

Step 4 

Fry the Fritters 

1. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. 

2. Once the oil is hot, add the fritters and fry them until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. 

Step 5 

Drain and Serve 

1. Take the fritters out of the oil and place them on paper towels to soak up any excess oil. 

2. Serve the fritters hot with your favorite dip or sauce.

 

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving) 

v  Calories: 150-200 

v  Protein: 2-3g 

v  Fat: 8-10g 

v  Carbohydrates: 15-20g 

 

Serve Middle Eastern Spiced Rice Fritters as a snack or appetizer alongside tzatziki sauce or hummus. You can also serve them as a side dish or add them to a salad or wrap. 

Tips and Variations 

·       Use leftover rice for a quicker and easier recipe. 

·       Adjust the spices to match your taste. 

·       Consider adding chopped nuts or seeds, like pistachios or sesame seeds, for extra crunch. 

·       Serve the fritters with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus kick. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I bake the fritters instead of frying? 

Yes, you can bake the fritters in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. 

2. What type of rice is best for this recipe? 

Cooked white or brown rice works well for this recipe. 

3. Can I customize the recipe with other spices? 

Yes, you can change the spices to your preference. 

4. Can I make the fritters ahead of time? 

Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture and shape the fritters in advance, but it's best to fry them just before serving. 

5. Can I serve the fritters as a main course? 

While the fritters can be a main dish, they are usually served as a snack or appetizer. 

6. Can I freeze the fritters? 

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked fritters for up to 3 months and fry them directly from the freezer.