Rice is an integral component of most Indian kitchens so much so that it is difficult to imagine days on end without enjoying a bit of dal-chawal or curd rice. Steamed rice-dal tadka is an easy meal alternative for those evenings when one cannot think of what to make for dinner. As a staple in most households, rice tends to be cooked every day. And a lot of times, we are confronted with leftover rice wondering what to do with it when a fresh batch will be made for the next big meal.
Leftover steamed rice from lunch can often be used to make curd rice at dinner, but there are some days on which one craves for something more. Rice is rich in carbohydrates and is a good source of energy particularly for those who are constantly on-the-go. There are many recipes that can be made from leftover steamed rice which can be packed into a tiffin to be enjoyed at lunch or as an afternoon snack. Here are some creative rice recipes which put leftover cooked rice to delicious use:
Rice Pakora
Pakoras are a favourite food especially during monsoons for their crispy texture and lip-smacking taste. Leftover rice can be used to make these mouthwatering snack treats by mixing it with besan, chopped onions, ginger-garlic paste, some chillies and coriander. Roll the mix into balls and fry them for a crunchy homecooked high tea dish relished with masala chai.
Lemon Rice
A favourite and a staple in most southern Indian households, lemon rice has a slightly tangy flavour that paired with the nuttiness of peanuts elevates its simple flavours. Made from readily available ingredients like lemon juice, curry leaves, red chillies, and urad dal, it acquires a refreshing quality that makes this dish ideal for breakfast or as a mid-morning snack.
Rice Kheer
A delicious and simple dessert, rice kheer is made from leftover rice, sugar, milk and is infused with the aroma of cardamom and cinnamon to enhance its flavour. Milk softens rice which can crispen up on being stored overnight in the fridge. Made with warm milk with generous helpings of cream and sugar, rice kheer is an indulgent breakfast treat, a favourite among kids and the elderly.
Tawa Pulao
Add some butter to a pan and put in leftover rice with a host of spices to make tawa pulao. Vegetables like potatoes, carrots, French beans and chopped onions can also be added to the rice variation to give it more volume. Add pav bhaji masala to the tawa pulao to make it exactly like the one served at your local pav bhaji joint.
Rice Cutlets
Rice cutlets or tikkis are ideal for afternoon snacking especially on chilly, rainy evenings. Easy to make, they are loaded with finely chopped vegetables and are a filling snack to satiate those afternoon hunger pangs. Add some ginger-garlic paste for flavour and mashed potatoes as a binding agent to make small, round tikkis and shallow fry them to use up leftover rice in the most delicious way.