Zucchini Fried Rice Balls

Are you looking for a delicious and unique snack or appetizer that brings together flavor, texture, and nutrition? Look no further than Crunchy Zucchini Fried Rice Balls. This delightful dish combines the comforting essence of fried rice with the vibrant freshness of zucchini, creating a crispy exterior and a flavorful, savory interior. These rice balls are not only a fantastic way to use up leftover rice but also an opportunity to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making them an appealing choice for both kids and adults.

Discover a tasty and nutritious snack with this recipe for Crunchy Zucchini Fried Rice Balls. Perfectly crispy on the outside and packed with flavorful ingredients like zucchini, carrots, and Parmesan cheese, these bite-sized treats are great for gatherings or a light lunch. Using day-old rice ensures a fantastic texture, while fresh veggies add vibrancy and health benefits. Easy to share and full of flavor, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

1 medium zucchini, grated

1/2 cup grated carrot

1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

Cooking oil (for frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: In a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini. This will prevent the rice balls from becoming soggy.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, grated zucchini, grated carrot, chopped green onions, Parmesan cheese, flour, beaten egg, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Form the Balls: Take a handful of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and shape it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should get around 15-18 balls. If needed, dust your hands with flour to prevent sticking.

Coat the Balls: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. This will give them a nice crispy texture when fried.

Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1-2 inches of cooking oil over medium heat. It’s hot enough when a breadcrumb dropped into the oil sizzles.

Fry the Rice Balls: Carefully place a few rice balls into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve: Enjoy your crunchy zucchini fried rice balls hot, paired with soy sauce or spicy dip for an extra kick. Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 15-18 balls