Crispy Rice Squares

In the quest for unique and satisfying dishes that cater to both our taste buds and our need for a visually appealing presentation, I stumbled upon a recipe that combines simplicity with a touch of elegance. The dish? Crispy Rice Squares. This easy-to-make recipe transforms the humble rice into a crunchy, savory delight, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. Below, I share with you this exquisite recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

To start, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups of dry sushi rice, meticulously rinsed until the water runs clear
• 2 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil

Directions:

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the delightful texture of the final product. Here’s how to make these crispy rice squares:

1. Rinse and Cook the Rice: Begin by rinsing the sushi rice 4-5 times until the water is clear. This step is crucial for removing excess starch, which can make the rice too sticky. Once rinsed, cook the rice with 2 cups of water, either in a rice cooker or on the stove, until it’s perfectly fluffy.
2. Season the Rice: In a small bowl, mix the salt, rice vinegar, sugar, and toasted sesame oil until the sugar dissolves. This mixture will season the rice beautifully, adding a subtle complexity to its flavor. Toss the cooked rice in this mixture until evenly combined.
3. Shape and Refrigerate: Transfer the seasoned rice into a small square baking tray lined with plastic wrap. Press and shape the rice into a 1/2-inch thick square block. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or even better, overnight. This step ensures the rice sets well, making it easier to fry later.
4. Cut and Dry the Rice: Once chilled, cut the rice into bite-sized rectangles. Pat the surfaces dry to remove any excess water condensation. This helps in achieving that perfect golden crust when fried.
5. Pan-Fry to Perfection: Heat about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently place the rice pieces into the pan, spaced about 2 inches apart. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Transfer the crispy squares onto a wire rack over a lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 6

With a total of 196 kcal per serving, these Crispy Rice Squares are not just a treat for the palate but also light on the calories. They make for a perfect snack or a unique side dish that’s sure to impress your guests. The crispy texture paired with the delicate flavors of vinegar and sesame oil creates a delightful contrast to the usual rice dishes. Give this recipe a try, and elevate your cooking game with these simple yet sophisticated Crispy Rice Squares.

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