Crispy Rice Crisps from Leftover Rice
Take your leftover rice and either air-dry it or store it in the fridge to let it dry out gradually. If the rice has formed lumps, use a pestle to break it down into separate grains. Heat oil in a pan and fry the dried, cold rice until it puffs up.
The drier the rice, the puffier and crispier it will become. If you want to add some color, mix a bit of food coloring into the dried rice before frying. Once fried, remove the puffed rice from the oil and drain on paper towels. Finally, sprinkle on some cheese powder for a tasty, eye-catching treat.
Crispy Fried Rice
Golden Tapioca Pearls
Blend leftover rice until smooth, then knead it with tapioca starch and boiling water. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, then roll it out and cut it into strips. Next, boil the tapioca strips and then plunge them into cold water. Finally, cook the tapioca in a brown sugar syrup for about 20 minutes, before transferring them to a bowl of ice water. The result? Delicious, crispy tapioca pearls.
Burnt Rice Crackers
If you’re looking for a quick way to transform your leftover rice into something delicious, try making burnt rice crackers. Spread the rice evenly in a pan and use a spoon to press it down, helping the grains stick together. After about five minutes of cooking, you’ll have tasty burnt rice crackers that pair perfectly with a savory dip or fish dish.
Alternatively, you can fry the rice and then drizzle it with fish sauce, oil, and scallions. This version goes well with fermented shrimp paste.
Fried Rice
One of the simplest and most common ways to use up leftover rice is to make fried rice. Frying leftover rice will make it fluffier and less likely to turn mushy. Simply chop up some beef or pickled vegetables, or scramble an egg, and toss it all together with the rice for a quick and tasty meal.
Leftover Rice Porridge
Using leftover rice is a great way to cut down on cooking time when making porridge. Boil the rice with water, then simmer on low heat. Use a spoon to break up the rice and help it dissolve into the liquid. If you prefer a thinner porridge, add more water after the rice has softened.
Japanese-Style Rice Balls
To make these cute and portable rice snacks, you’ll need leftover rice, tuna, and seaweed. Use a mold to shape the rice, adding a filling of tuna in the center. Press the rice firmly into the mold to create a compact rice ball. This dish is perfect for kids’ lunches or family picnics.
Rice-Coated Quail Eggs
Rice-Coated Quail Eggs
These tasty treats are both delicious and visually appealing. Start by hard-boiling quail eggs and removing their shells. Next, take your leftover rice and coat the eggs, making sure to press the rice firmly so it sticks to the eggs. Fry the coated eggs in hot oil until the rice coating is golden and crispy. The result is a unique snack with a crunchy exterior and a creamy, savory center.
