Ivorian Rice Fritters

Ingredients

While the original Zeppola di riso is a sweet dish made with rice, sugar, and lemon zest, the Ivorian Rice Fritters take a savory approach. The flavors are enhanced with Ivorian spices like ginger, garlic, and chili powder, giving the fritters a unique and vibrant taste. Additionally, the cooking technique differs as the fritters are deep-fried instead of being baked. We alse have the original recipe for Zeppola di riso, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) cooked rice 2 cups (400g) cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, ginger paste, chili powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Take small portions of the rice mixture and shape them into small balls or patties.
4. 4.
   Carefully drop the rice balls into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. 5.
   Remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Ivorian Rice Fritters hot as a snack or as a side dish with your favorite dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Ensure that the cooked rice is cooled before using it in the recipe. Cold rice will bind the ingredients better and result in a firmer texture for the fritters.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley to the rice mixture before shaping the fritters.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces such as spicy tomato chutney or peanut sauce to enhance the taste of the fritters.
• If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder according to your taste preference.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the fritters to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Serve the fritters immediately after frying to enjoy them at their best texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Ivorian Rice Fritters as a snack with a side of dipping sauce or as a delicious accompaniment to a main course. They can also be served as a part of a buffet or as an appetizer for gatherings.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Ivorian Rice Fritters on a platter or a wooden board. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve with a small bowl of dipping sauce in the center to add an inviting touch.