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Zucchini Fried Rice Balls are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making them the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. This innovative recipe combines the wholesome goodness of zucchini with the comforting elements of fried rice, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also a clever way to utilize leftover rice. As more people seek out recipes that are both nutritious and satisfying, Zucchini Fried Rice Balls stand out as a versatile option that can cater to various dietary preferences. In this blog post, we will explore the step-by-step process of creating these scrumptious bites, delve into the nutritional benefits of the ingredients, and discover why they are a must-try for your next gathering.

Zucchini Fried Rice Balls

Discover the delightful taste of Zucchini Fried Rice Balls, a perfect fusion of flavors and textures that's great for any occasion. This innovative recipe combines nutritious zucchini with leftover rice, making it a smart choice for reducing waste. Packed with vitamins and fiber, these crispy bites are easy to prepare and can cater to various dietary preferences. Follow our step-by-step guide to create delicious, golden rice balls that are sure to impress at your next gathering. Enjoy the perfect appetizer or snack!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, grated

1 cup leftover cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)

1 egg, beaten

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetable oil, for frying

Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare Zucchini: Begin by grating the zucchinis and placing them in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the rice balls from being too wet.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large pan over medium heat, add a drizzle of vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sautéed onion and garlic, cooked rice, thawed peas, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.

        Form Balls: With clean hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a ball. Repeat the process until you’ve used all the mixture, placing the formed balls on a parchment-lined tray.

          Coat Rice Balls: Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs to create a nice coating. This will give them a crispy exterior once fried.

            Fry Rice Balls: In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the rice balls (working in batches if necessary) and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

              Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the zucchini fried rice balls to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Enjoy them while they’re hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6 (makes about 12 balls)