Zucchini and Rice Fritters Recipe

These Zucchini and Rice Fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or side dish that combines fresh zucchini, fluffy rice, and savory spices. Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or a snack, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.

What Are Zucchini and Rice Fritters?

Zucchini and Rice Fritters are crispy little patties made by combining grated zucchini with cooked rice, onions, egg, and flour. Spiced with paprika and chili flakes, they’re shallow-fried until golden brown, resulting in a dish that’s full of flavor and satisfying in every bite. A perfect way to use up extra zucchini, these fritters are both tasty and versatile!

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

Zucchini and Rice Fritters are:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A great way to sneak in vegetables while satisfying your cravings.
• Crispy and Flavorful: The right balance of spices and texture for an irresistible dish.

Cooking Tips

1. Drain the zucchini well: After grating the zucchini, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the fritters from becoming soggy.
2. Fry on medium heat: Frying on medium heat ensures the fritters cook evenly and turn crispy without burning.
3. Custom spice blend: Adjust the amount of chili flakes and paprika to your preferred spice level. You can also add a touch of garlic powder for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bake These Fritters Instead of Frying Them?

Yes, you can bake them! Place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides get crispy.

Can I Use a Different Type of Rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute the rice with other grains like quinoa or couscous for a different flavor or texture.

How Do I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?

To make the fritters gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. You can also try chickpea flour for added flavor.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the fritters ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a hot pan or oven to crisp them back up.

What Can I Serve These Fritters With?

These fritters go perfectly with a simple yogurt dip, avocado slices, or a side salad. They also make a great side dish for grilled meats or as a snack.

How to Freeze

To freeze the fritters, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat them in a hot pan or oven until crispy.

How to Store

Store leftover Zucchini and Rice Fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a hot pan with a little oil to maintain their crispness.

How To Make Zucchini and Rice Fritters

Step 1

Step 1

Wash and prepare the rice:
Place the rice in a bowl and rinse it with water. Drain well. Add the washed rice to a saucepan, then cover with water and salt. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the water. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Wash and prepare the rice:
Place the rice in a bowl and rinse it with water. Drain well. Add the washed rice to a saucepan, then cover with water and salt. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the water. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 2

Step 2

Grate the zucchini and place it in a mixing bowl. To the zucchini, add the cooked rice, finely chopped onion, egg, chili flakes, paprika powder, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until well combined.

Grate the zucchini and place it in a mixing bowl. To the zucchini, add the cooked rice, finely chopped onion, egg, chili flakes, paprika powder, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3

Step 3

Fry the fritters:
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Use a spoon to scoop the mixture into the pan, pressing it gently to form fritters. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Fry the fritters:
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Use a spoon to scoop the mixture into the pan, pressing it gently to form fritters. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 4

Step 4

Serve and enjoy:
Transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm on a platter and enjoy!

Serve and enjoy:
Transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm on a platter and enjoy!