Cheesy Herb Rice Patties

This vibrant dish brings together the hearty texture of rice, the delightful creaminess of cheese, and the fresh aroma of herbs. It's a unique way to enjoy rice that transforms it into a satisfying meal or snack. The addition of Manchego cheese, which melts beautifully, makes every bite savory and rich. With the flexibility of ingredients, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. The patties are versatile, making them perfect as a complete meal, a side dish, or even for a picnic. With just the right amount of garlic and spices, these patties are flavorful without being overpowering. Whether served hot or at room temperature, they maintain their delightful taste and texture. You'll find that preparing these patties is not only straightforward but also a fantastic way to indulge your family and friends. Follow the detailed instructions below to create these delightful rice patties at home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

300 g round rice
80 g grated Manchego cheese (or substitute with Parmesan cheese)
1 l meat broth
3 eggs
1 large onion
2 cloves of garlic
1 bunch of parsley
1 bunch of basil
5 tablespoons olive oil

Spices:

Salt
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chop the onion finely to ensure it cooks evenly.
In a shallow pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sauté the onions until they become translucent. Add the pressed garlic to incorporate the aromatic flavors.
Boil the meat broth in a separate pot, keeping it hot and ready to use.
Add the rice to the pot with onions and garlic. Stir constantly, ensuring the rice is fully coated with olive oil. This step ensures that the rice doesn't stick and cooks uniformly.
Gradually add the hot broth to the rice mixture, pouring in small batches. Wait for the rice to absorb each addition of broth before adding more, while continuously stirring. This ensures a rich, creamy texture.
Cook the rice for 25 minutes until tender, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the rice to cool slightly before proceeding.
Wash and finely chop the herbs (parsley and basil) after removing the stems, enhancing the flavor of the patties.
In a mixing bowl, combine the herbs, grated cheese, and eggs with the cooled rice mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated and cohesive.
With moistened hands, take approximately 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and shape them into flat patties. This helps them cook evenly.
Heat the remaining olive oil in a pan and fry the patties for about 5 minutes, flipping them over once to ensure both sides are browned and crispy.

Tips

Substitute Manchego cheese with a similar cheese like Grana Padano if unavailable.
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Ensure to keep the rice mixture cool to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 10g
Fats: 15g
Carbs: 40g

Variations

Swap basil with cilantro for a different flavor profile.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Use brown rice for a healthier, fiber-rich option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of fresh greens or a simple salad to balance the dish.
Pair with a fresh tomato salsa or a yogurt dip for added zest.

Best Places

Rice & Spice - Specializes in rice-based dishes with a twist. Location: 123 Spice Rd, Madrid, Spain.
The Herb Haven - Known for its innovative herb-infused menus. Location: 456 Garden St, Paris, France.
Cheesy Delight Bistro - Offers a variety of cheese-centric dishes. Location: 789 Dairy Ln, Rome, Italy.
Flavor Fusion - Famed for blending traditional and modern flavors. Location: 321 Mix Ave, New York, USA.
Basil Bliss Café - Celebrated for its fresh basil-infused creations. Location: 654 Leaf Rd, London, UK.
Gourmet Savory - Focuses on gourmet yet homely meals. Location: 987 Aroma Sq, Sydney, Australia.
Parsley Palace - Offers dishes highlighting the fresh taste of parsley. Location: 564 Herb Cir, Toronto, Canada.
Olive Oil Oeuvre - Showcases olive oil in a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Location: 432 Olive Blvd, Athens, Greece.
Egg & Cheese House - A beloved spot for cheese lovers. Location: 876 Yolk St, Chicago, USA.
The Bulb Bistro - Savors the essence of garlic in its upscale dining experience. Location: 345 Clove Dr, Lisbon, Portugal.