Description
Crispy Rice Dumplings are a delightful fusion appetizer combining day-old cooked rice with ground meat and fresh vegetables. These golden brown, pan-fried dumplings are crisp on the outside and tender inside, flavored with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, making them a perfect savory snack or party bite.
Ingredients
Rice Mixture
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 lb ground pork or chicken
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, green onions, bell peppers)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked rice, ground pork or chicken, chopped vegetables, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the mixture is well blended.
- Add Soy Sauce and Egg: Stir in the soy sauce and the beaten egg into the rice mixture until fully incorporated, ensuring the mixture can hold together when shaped.
- Shape Dumplings: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and shape approximately two tablespoons of the filling mixture into small balls or patties, compacting them firmly.
- Coat Dumplings: Roll each formed dumpling in the panko breadcrumbs until completely coated, which will give them a crispy texture when fried.
- Heat Oil and Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the dumplings in batches so they don’t overcrowd, cooking about 3-4 minutes per side until they achieve an even golden brown color and are cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the dumplings from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for best texture, as fresh rice can be too moist and sticky.
- Ground chicken or pork can be substituted with turkey or a plant-based alternative if desired.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to taste and opt for low-sodium versions to control salt intake.
- Ensure oil is heated adequately before frying to avoid greasy dumplings.
- Serve with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.