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Best Crispy Rice Bites with Easy Soy Glaze Recipe

crispy rice bites - featured image

Turn leftover rice into incredibly crispy, golden-brown bites with a sweet and savory soy glaze. This quick and easy snack is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked white rice, cold
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Make the Soy Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside.
  2. Prep the Rice: Break up any large clumps of cold rice with your fingers. If the rice feels too wet, pat it dry with a paper towel.
  3. Form the Rice Cakes: Scoop about ¼ cup of rice into your hand and gently press it into a firm patty, about ½-inch thick. You should get about 8 to 10 patties.
  4. Heat the Pan: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and vegetable oil. Swirl until the butter is melted and foamy.
  5. Cook the Rice Bites: Carefully place the rice patties in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
  6. Flip and Finish: Flip each rice cake and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until both sides are deeply golden and crispy.
  7. Glaze While Hot: Transfer the cooked rice bites to a serving plate. Immediately brush the tops with the soy glaze while they are still hot.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve right away.

Notes

Day-old rice works best for maximum crispiness. If using fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 20 minutes to dry it out. For a thicker glaze, simmer it in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes. To freeze, cook unglazed rice bites, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer before glazing.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy rice bites, soy glaze, leftover rice, easy snack, pan-fried rice, appetizer, vegetarian