Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, scallions, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten eggs to the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a tablespoon, scoop the rice mixture and form it into a ball. Flatten the ball slightly and place it in the hot oil. Repeat until the pan is full, but not overcrowded.
5. Fry the pastelitos for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Repeat the process until all the rice mixture is used up.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 20 pastelitos
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 120
- Total fat: 8g
- Saturated fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total carbohydrates: 9g
- Dietary fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use any other type of grated cheese.
- Instead of parsley and scallions, you can use other herbs and spices such as cilantro, cumin, or paprika.
Variations:
- You can add cooked ground beef or chicken to the rice mixture for a meatier version.
- You can also add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas for a more colorful and nutritious version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the pastelitos to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the pastelitos from the oil to avoid burning yourself.
- You can serve the pastelitos with your favorite dipping sauce such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover pastelitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the pastelitos, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the pastelitos on a platter and garnish with chopped herbs or grated cheese.
Garnishes:
- Chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro
- Grated cheese
- Salsa or guacamole
Pairings:
- Serve the pastelitos with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- You can also serve them as an appetizer with other finger foods such as empanadas or chicken wings.
Suggested side dishes:
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Black beans and rice
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pastelitos are falling apart in the oil, add more flour to the rice mixture to help bind it together.
- If the pastelitos are not crispy enough, increase the heat of the oil and fry them for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the rice is cooked properly before using it in the recipe to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil to avoid any accidents.
Food history:
- Pastelitos de Arroz is a popular dish in Latin America, especially in countries such as Colombia, Venezuela, and Panama.
Flavor profiles:
- The pastelitos have a crispy exterior and a soft and savory interior with hints of garlic, cheese, and herbs.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pastelitos warm or at room temperature as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.
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Region: Spanish