Cabbage is often overlooked as a primary ingredient, but it’s full of nutrition and can be the star of many dishes. In this recipe, we combine cabbage with rice, eggs, and cheese to create delicious and hearty fritters that are perfect for any meal. These Cabbage and Rice Fritters are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. They’re also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak the recipe based on what ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these fritters are sure to be a hit. Simple to make and budget-friendly, this dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked rice and cabbage while adding some delicious cheesy goodness.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Half a medium-sized cabbage (about 300-350 g)
- 2 eggs
- 20-30 g of cooked rice (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Cheese to taste (about 50-80 g, cheddar or mozzarella recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Steps to Make Cabbage and Rice Fritters with Cheese
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Start by finely shredding the cabbage using a sharp knife, grater, or mandoline slicer. If the cabbage seems a bit tough, you can sprinkle a pinch of salt on it and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will help soften it and release some moisture.
- After it has softened, squeeze out any excess liquid from the cabbage using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial to ensure that the fritters hold together well during cooking.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the two eggs lightly until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
- Add the shredded cabbage, cooked rice, and grated cheese to the bowl with the eggs. You can choose the amount of cheese based on your taste preference—about 50-80 g of cheddar or mozzarella works well.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to add other spices or herbs like garlic powder, paprika, or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
- Form the Fritters:
- Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when you form it into patties.
- If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients together.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Heat a non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Using your hands or a spoon, form small patties or fritters from the mixture. Flatten them slightly for even cooking.
- Carefully place the fritters into the heated pan, leaving enough space between them to allow for flipping.
- Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully with a spatula to avoid breaking them apart.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the fritters are golden and crispy on both sides, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the fritters warm with your favorite dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream. You can also enjoy them with a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Sugar: 3 g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make these fritters without rice? Yes, you can omit the rice if you don’t have any on hand, but the rice adds a nice texture and makes the fritters more filling. If you omit it, the fritters will still turn out delicious but slightly less substantial.
- What type of cheese works best? Cheddar or mozzarella are great choices for this recipe because they melt well and add a mild, cheesy flavor. You can also experiment with stronger cheeses like parmesan or gouda if you prefer a sharper taste.
- Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them? Yes, if you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
- How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart? If the fritters seem too wet and are falling apart during cooking, try adding a tablespoon or two of flour or breadcrumbs to the mixture. This will help bind the ingredients together and give the fritters a firmer texture.
Tips for Making the Best Cabbage and Rice Fritters
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and eggs will give you the best results. The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant and delicious your fritters will taste.
- Cook the Rice Ahead of Time: If you don’t have leftover rice, cook a small amount of rice beforehand and let it cool before adding it to the mixture. Warm rice may make the fritters too soft and difficult to shape.
- Control the Heat: Fry the fritters over medium heat to ensure they cook through evenly. If the heat is too high, the outside may brown too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked.
- Customize the Flavors: Feel free to customize this basic recipe by adding herbs and spices. Dill, parsley, garlic powder, or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor of the fritters. You can even add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Storage Tips
- In the Refrigerator: These fritters store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the fritters to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. To reheat, warm them in a skillet or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through and crispy again.
- In the Freezer: If you want to store the fritters for longer, they freeze well. After cooking, let the fritters cool to room temperature, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer the fritters to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in a skillet or oven.
Conclusion
Cabbage and Rice Fritters with Cheese are a simple yet flavorful dish that you can whip up with just a few pantry staples. Whether you’re trying to use up leftover rice or make the most of fresh vegetables, these fritters are a perfect option. The combination of shredded cabbage, cooked rice, and melty cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish that’s suitable for any time of day. Plus, these fritters are easy to store and reheat, making them a great make-ahead meal. Serve them with a side of salad, a dipping sauce, or enjoy them on their own—no matter how you serve them, these fritters are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!