Afghan Rice Fritters with a Twist

Ingredients

In this Afghan adaptation, the Italian Frittelle di riso di San Giuseppe is transformed into Afghan Rice Fritters by incorporating traditional Afghan spices and flavors. The original Italian dish typically uses ingredients like Parmesan cheese and parsley, which are replaced with Afghan spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Additionally, the fritters are given an Afghan twist by adding chopped vegetables like carrots and peas for added texture and freshness. We alse have the original recipe for Frittelle di riso di San Giuseppe, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) cooked rice 2 cups (400g) cooked rice
• 1/2 cup (75g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (75g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup (75g) finely chopped carrots 1/2 cup (75g) finely chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup (75g) frozen peas, thawed 1/2 cup (75g) frozen peas, thawed
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, all-purpose flour, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped carrots and thawed peas to the rice mixture. Stir until the vegetables are well distributed throughout the mixture.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Take a small portion of the rice mixture and shape it into a small fritter using your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the fritters into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. 6.
   Once the fritters are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Afghan Rice Fritters hot as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or served with a tangy yogurt dip.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Use cooked rice that has been cooled down to room temperature. Cold rice works best for binding the fritters together.
• Carrots and peas — Finely chop the carrots to ensure they cook evenly. Thaw the peas before adding them to the mixture to prevent excess moisture.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped onions and garlic to the rice mixture.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
• To make the fritters even crispier, you can coat them in breadcrumbs before frying.
• Serve the fritters immediately after frying to enjoy them at their best.

Serving advice

Serve the Afghan Rice Fritters hot as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a tangy yogurt dip. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Afghan Rice Fritters on a platter and serve them with a side of yogurt dip. Sprinkle some paprika or cumin powder on top for a visually appealing presentation.