Herbed Rice Cakes

Herbed Rice Cakes Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dish from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Herbed rice cakes are a delicious and savory snack that can be enjoyed any time of day. These crispy rice cakes are topped with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of herbs and spices. They make the perfect appetizer for a party or a tasty treat for a quiet night in.

History

Rice cakes have been a popular snack food for centuries, originating in Asia where rice is a staple food. The addition of herbs and spices to rice cakes is a modern twist on this classic snack, adding a burst of flavor to the crispy texture of the rice cake.

Ingredients

24 unsalted mini rice cakes
0.25 cup (2 oz (57 g)) softened cream cheese
0.25 cup reduced-calorie sour cream
1 tsp dried minced onion
0.25 tsp dried tarragon leaves
0.25 tsp dried rosemary leaves
0.25 tsp dried oregano leaves
0.25 tsp garlic salt
0.13 tsp dried dill weed

How to prepare

Place the rice cakes on a baking sheet.
Blend the cheese, sour cream, onion, tarragon, rosemary, oregano, garlic salt, and dill; spread the mixture evenly on the rice cakes.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a burst of fresh flavor.
Top the rice cakes with sliced cherry tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use unsalted rice cakes to avoid overpowering the flavors of the herbs and spices.

- Soften the cream cheese before blending it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy mixture.

- Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve herbed rice cakes as an appetizer at a party or as a snack for a movie night at home. They pair well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier flavor.

- Substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs, adjusting the quantities as needed.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the herbed cream cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Bake the rice cakes just before serving for the best texture.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the herbed rice cakes on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. Serve with a side of fresh vegetables or crackers for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair herbed rice cakes with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light and refreshing beer. They also go well with a fruity iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover herbed rice cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of herbed rice cakes contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of herbed rice cakes contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of herbed rice cakes contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of herbed rice cakes contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Herbed rice cakes are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and sour cream) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Herbed rice cakes are a tasty and satisfying snack that is relatively low in calories and fat. They are a good source of carbohydrates and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Herbed rice cakes are a simple yet flavorful snack that is perfect for any occasion. With a creamy herb and cheese topping, these crispy rice cakes are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them as a light appetizer or a tasty snack any time of day.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Herbed Rice Cakes. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margie in the countryside. Margie was known for her incredible cooking skills, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.

As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I could smell the delicious aroma of herbs and spices wafting through the air. Margie was bustling about, mixing ingredients and humming a tune to herself. I asked her what she was making, and she grinned mischievously before revealing her latest creation – Herbed Rice Cakes.

I watched in awe as Margie effortlessly combined cooked rice, herbs, and spices into a flavorful mixture. She then shaped the mixture into small patties and fried them until they were golden and crispy. The final result was a plate of delicious rice cakes that looked absolutely mouthwatering.

I couldn't wait to try one, and as soon as Margie handed me a hot rice cake, I took a bite and savored the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The herbs gave the rice cakes a fresh and aromatic taste, while the crispy exterior provided the perfect crunch. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these delicious treats myself.

Margie was more than happy to share her recipe with me, and she patiently walked me through each step of the process. As I measured out the ingredients and mixed them together, I felt a sense of nostalgia wash over me. It reminded me of my own grandmother, who had taught me so much about cooking when I was just a little girl.

I learned that the key to making the perfect Herbed Rice Cakes was to use a combination of fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, and dill. The herbs added a burst of flavor to the rice cakes and gave them a vibrant green color. Margie also taught me the importance of seasoning the mixture generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.

After shaping the rice mixture into patties, I carefully fried them in a hot skillet until they were golden and crispy on the outside. The sizzling sound of the rice cakes cooking was music to my ears, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As I took my first bite of the freshly cooked Herbed Rice Cake, I was transported back to that warm summer day in Margie's kitchen. The flavors were just as delicious as I remembered, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had mastered a new recipe with her guidance.

From that day on, Herbed Rice Cakes became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a special treat for myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Each time I cooked up a batch of rice cakes, I would think back to that summer day with Margie and smile at the memories we had shared.

Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with loved ones, both past and present. Every recipe I learn carries with it a story and a connection to someone special in my life. And now, whenever I make Herbed Rice Cakes, I am reminded of the friendship and love that Margie has brought into my life.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a delicious and savory snack, give these Herbed Rice Cakes a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to savor each bite and appreciate the memories that come with every delicious morsel. Happy cooking!