If you have leftover rice sitting in your fridge, don’t let it go to waste! There are plenty of delicious ways to repurpose it into new meals and treats.
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What to Make with Leftover Rice
From savory dishes to sweet treats, here are some of the best ways to use up leftover rice.
1. Fried Rice
Fried rice is one of the most popular ways to transform leftover rice into a flavorful meal. The key is using cold rice, which helps achieve that perfect, slightly crispy texture. Here’s a basic method:
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté diced onions, garlic, and vegetables of choice.
- Add protein like scrambled eggs, chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Stir in the rice and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of pepper.
- Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through and enjoy!
2. Rice Pudding
Turn your leftover rice into a comforting dessert with this simple rice pudding recipe:
- In a saucepan, combine leftover rice with milk, sugar, and a dash of cinnamon or vanilla.
- Simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Serve warm or chilled, topped with fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey.
3. Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are a great snack or side dish that are easy to make:
- Mix leftover rice with an egg, grated cheese, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Form into small patties and pan-fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve with a dipping sauce or top with sour cream and chives.
4. Rice Soup
Leftover rice makes a great addition to soups, adding heartiness and texture. Simply:
- Add rice to broth-based soups like chicken soup, vegetable soup, or even a spicy tom yum.
- Let it simmer until the flavors meld together.
- Enjoy a warm and comforting meal!
5. Rice Salad
For a refreshing and nutritious dish, try making a rice salad:
- Mix leftover rice with chopped vegetables, beans, or nuts.
- Toss with a simple vinaigrette or dressing of your choice.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or feta cheese for a complete meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers
Leftover rice makes a great stuffing for bell peppers:
- Mix rice with ground beef or turkey, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Stuff into halved bell peppers and bake until tender.
- Top with cheese and bake a few more minutes until melted.
7. Rice Fritters
For a crispy, snackable option, make rice fritters:
- Combine rice with flour, egg, and seasonings.
- Form into small balls or patties and deep-fry until crispy.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like marinara or spicy aioli.
8. Rice-Stuffed Omelet
Give your breakfast a boost by adding rice to an omelet:
- Whisk eggs and cook in a pan.
- Add rice, cheese, and veggies to one side, then fold over.
- Cook until cheese melts and enjoy a protein-packed start to the day.
9. Rice Pancakes
For a unique twist on breakfast, make rice pancakes:
- Mix rice with flour, egg, and a little milk.
- Cook like regular pancakes on a hot griddle.
- Serve with syrup, jam, or fruit for a sweet treat.
10. Rice-Stuffed Vegetables
Use leftover rice to fill vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, or mushrooms:
- Mix rice with herbs, cheese, and protein like beans or ground meat.
- Stuff into hollowed-out vegetables and bake until tender.
- A healthy and flavorful way to use up your rice!
Leftover Rice Conclusion
Leftover rice is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of creative and delicious ways. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, these ideas will help ensure your rice never goes to waste. Try one (or more) of these recipes next time you have extra rice on hand!
