Parmesan Rice Cakes

These Parmesan Rice Cakes are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the goodness of cheese and rice. The cheese adds a rich and crispy texture to the griddlecakes, making them an irresistible savory dish. You can easily customize this recipe with various cheese options and serve them as a delightful side or a light meal.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: About 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk, half-and-half, or cream, plus more as needed
• 1 1/2 cups cooked White Rice or Brown Rice
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and cayenne
• 1/4 cup neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn, or 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until well combined. Add the cooked rice and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl and stir.
2. Switch to a spoon and add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, a sprinkle of salt, and as much cayenne as desired. Mix well. Add extra milk as needed to achieve a smooth, medium-thick batter.
3. Heat a heavy skillet or griddle to about 375°F. Add a little oil or butter to the pan and let it bubble.
4. Using a large spoon, scoop up a portion of the batter and place it in the pan, allowing it to spread to about 3 inches in diameter. Cook multiple griddlecakes at once, turning them after a couple of minutes, or until they turn golden brown. The total cooking time will be around 5 to 8 minutes.
5. Serve the Parmesan Rice Cakes immediately, ideally straight from the pan. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness.

VARIATIONS:

• Replace Parmesan cheese with aged cheddar, Gruyère, semidry or dry pecorino, or crumbled feta cheese to create different flavor profiles.
• Incorporate chopped cured ham, like prosciutto, Serrano, or country ham, or crispy cooked bacon or pancetta into the batter for extra savory goodness.

USES:

• Serve the Parmesan Rice Cakes as a delightful side dish or a light main course. They pair well with any tomato sauce, such as marinara or arrabbiata. Enjoy them as a delicious appetizer or as a part of a brunch spread.

Indulge in the goodness of these Parmesan Rice Cakes, boasting a crisp exterior and a tender, cheesy interior. The delightful combination of rice and Parmesan cheese creates a dish that is both simple and delicious. Whether served with tomato sauce or enjoyed on their own, these griddlecakes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests with their delightful flavors.