If there is ever a doubt that leftover rice or plain cooked rice is boring, the seemingly unassuming ingredient is pretty versatile to work with. If you always have cooked rice stocked up in the fridge from previous meals or as part of meal-prepping, eating it on its own or pairing it with the usual protein and veggies, can get a little boring. Besides, who wants to eat a lacklustre breakfast to kickstart the day, given a choice? Eating rice as the first meal of the day also helps you stay full for longer and gives you the option of trying something delicious and offbeat once in a while.
Rice Pancakes
A desi twist to the usual American breakfast treat, rice pancakes can be made with a mixture of mashed cooked rice, gram flour, onions, green chillies and spices. Add some water to thin out the batter and pour ladlefuls into a greased, hot pan to cook for 3-4 minutes on both sides. Once done, serve with a spicy green chutney and some grated cheese on top while still warm. These rice pancakes are also a good evening snack option for those looking to enjoy something healthy.
Breakfast Fried Rice
Image Credits: Lynn's Kitchen Adventures
As the name suggests, the breakfast fried rice is exactly what it promises to be – scrambled eggs, bacon shards, potatoes, spring onions and a mix of seasonings tossed with rice. This quick recipe requires very little prep time and can be assembled as you heat up your pan, to get some cooking going. Here’s a hot tip: cook the strips of bacon before and prepare the remaining ingredients in the salty bacon fat, for some extra flavour. Add mushrooms, corn and bell peppers for colour and a healthy drizzle of sriracha for that spicy depth.
Rice Porridge
A portion of leftover rice definitely has the potential to be dessert for breakfast, when cooked with milk, cream, vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The comforting flavours of this warm porridge are perfect for rainy mornings or cold winter days, complementing the strong cup of coffee that is an essential. Add fruits like bananas, cherries, berries or even figs on top, for added nutritional value. Add some cacao nibs or a sprinkle of good quality espresso powder for added richness.
Rice Congee
Image Credits: Wikipedia
Crispy Rice Fritters
Mix leftover cooked rice with whisked eggs, veggies, fresh herbs and cheese to make a batter that can be poured into crispy, pan-fried rice fritters. These delicious savoury fritters are a kid-friendly way to get your children to eat a meal that consists of all elements, in a form that they would enjoy most. When fried, these fritters develop a crunchy exterior and a fluffy, soft centre, making it a treat to enjoy with your cup of chai in the morning.
Rice Casserole
Image Credits: The Kitchn
The perfect make-ahead recipe, save some cooked rice while prepping a meal, to mix and freeze into a cheesy, spicy casserole. Pre-mix rice with lots of grated cheese, eggs, milk, caramelised onions and tomatoes and pour into a buttered baking dish and seal with cling wrap, until ready to bake in the oven as you go about your day. You could also make this pre-mix and freeze it for a delicious weekend brunch for four.