Bolinho de Arroz: A Tasty Brazilian Rice Snack
Bolinho de Arroz, or Brazilian rice cakes, are a delightful and resourceful way to utilize leftover cooked rice. These tasty snacks are popular throughout Brazil, known for their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. The basic recipe involves mixing cooked rice with eggs, flour, and often cheese or parsley, creating a batter that binds well when fried. Variations may include adding shredded vegetables, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor.
These rice cakes are typically deep-fried until golden brown, resulting in a crunchy snack perfect for serving with dipping sauces like tomato salsa or creamy garlic aioli. Bolinho de Arroz can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light meal and is especially popular at gatherings and casual parties. They offer a delicious way to reduce food waste and provide a comforting, satisfying treat that’s both simple to make and universally enjoyable.
AuthorJulia ForesekCategoryAppetizers & Starters, Brazilian, VegetarianDifficultyIntermediatePrepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, flour, eggs, and milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic (if using), and baking powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
If you’re using any optional add-ins like ham, mozzarella, or corn, fold them into the batter now.
Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or a deep fryer, heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the fritters over medium heat. The oil is ready when a small amount of batter dropped into it sizzles and browns.
Form and Fry the Fritters:
Using two spoons or a small ice cream scoop, form balls of the rice mixture and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
Fry the fritters in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve:
Serve the Bolinho de Arroz hot. They are best enjoyed fresh from the fryer while crispy and warm.
Ingredients
Directions
Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, flour, eggs, and milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic (if using), and baking powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
If you’re using any optional add-ins like ham, mozzarella, or corn, fold them into the batter now.
Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or a deep fryer, heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the fritters over medium heat. The oil is ready when a small amount of batter dropped into it sizzles and browns.
Form and Fry the Fritters:
Using two spoons or a small ice cream scoop, form balls of the rice mixture and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
Fry the fritters in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve:
Serve the Bolinho de Arroz hot. They are best enjoyed fresh from the fryer while crispy and warm.
Perfect Beverage Pairing:
- Cold Beer: A light, crisp beer such as a Brazilian lager complements the richness of the cakes.
- Caipirinha: For a truly Brazilian experience, pair the fritters with Brazil’s national cocktail, which will cut through the richness of the fried food.
